OMAR, Sulu — Nine individuals were apprehended after authorities responded to a report of alleged cyanide fishing in the coastal waters of Barangay Capual, Omar, Sulu, on September 27, 2026, highlighting the growing role of local communities in protecting the province’s marine resources.
The operation was carried out through the coordinated efforts of the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police (PNP), and members of the Barangay Peace Action Team (BPAT), following information provided by a concerned citizen regarding suspected illegal fishing activities near Sitio Taluk-Taluk.
Lt. Col. Dante Mantes, commanding officer of the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion, said the information prompted troops from the battalion’s Bravo Company to immediately coordinate with the Omar Municipal Police Station.
The Army team, led by 1st Lt. Gian Roi E. Bartolata, proceeded to the reported area together with police personnel led by PCpt Alkheen Puddin, chief of the Omar Municipal Police Station, and members of the local BPAT.
Upon reaching the coastal area, the joint team apprehended nine individuals who were allegedly engaged in cyanide fishing using a compressor, authorities said.
Two motorized civilian boats and fishing equipment allegedly used in the activity were also confiscated during the operation.
Cyanide fishing is considered an illegal and destructive fishing practice because the use of toxic substances can damage coral reefs and other marine ecosystems while posing risks to fish populations and the long-term livelihood of coastal communities.
The apprehended individuals, along with the confiscated boats and fishing equipment, were subsequently turned over to the Omar Municipal Police Station for investigation and appropriate legal action.
Authorities did not disclose in the information provided whether formal charges had already been filed against the nine individuals. Their alleged involvement in the illegal fishing activity remains subject to investigation and the appropriate legal process.
Community Vigilance Key to Operation
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, commended barangay officials and residents for reporting the suspected illegal activity and helping authorities respond quickly.
“This is community-based peace and security in action,” Delos Santos said, emphasizing the importance of residents becoming active partners in protecting both community safety and local resources.
He said the incident demonstrated how information from residents, when combined with timely action by security and law enforcement agencies, can help address concerns affecting coastal communities.
Delos Santos also stressed that community participation represents a continuing shift toward greater local ownership of peace and security in Sulu.
Under this approach, residents, barangay officials, local government units, law enforcement agencies and security forces work together not only to maintain peace and order but also to protect resources that support local livelihoods.
The brigade said it would continue strengthening community-based initiatives and partnerships with local government units, police, barangay leaders and residents in support of sustainable peace, environmental protection and community resilience across Sulu.
The operation also underscores the importance of community vigilance in coastal areas, where illegal and destructive fishing activities can directly affect marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of fishing communities.