HADJI MUHTAMAD, Basilan, Philippines — Authorities apprehended two fishing boats allegedly engaged in illegal fishing using Danish seine, locally known as hulbot-hulbot, during an enforcement operation in the coastal waters of Pasil-Pasilan, Barangay Palahangan, Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, at approximately 1 p.m. on October 23, 2026.
The operation was led by Vice Mayor Nurissa Kahing and the municipal Bantay Dagat team, in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Sub-Station and other concerned authorities, as part of local efforts to protect marine resources and enforce fisheries regulations.
Following the apprehension, authorities inventoried and documented the two boats and their fishing gear. The Municipal Agriculture Office said the necessary administrative complaint would be filed with the Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) for appropriate action.
The operation cited alleged violations of Republic Act No. 10654, which amended the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, as well as Sections 93, 95, 97, 108, 113 and 121 and applicable Fisheries Administrative Orders (FAOs). The specific allegations and corresponding penalties will be subject to the administrative proceedings.
Crew released; fish turned over to social welfare office
All crew members aboard the apprehended boats were released, according to the municipal government’s report. However, the three highest-ranking officials on board remained with the vessels to help ensure their safety and security.
The fish confiscated during the operation were turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO). The local government did not provide further details on the quantity of fish seized or how the confiscated catch would be distributed.
Representatives of the PCG Sub-Station and the Philippine National Police (PNP) witnessed the operation.
Local government vows to protect marine resources
The operation was carried out on behalf of the Local Government Unit of Hadji Muhtamad under Mayor Arsina Kahing-Nanoh. Municipal Agriculture Officer-in-Charge Alvin Sajiran Hasan, RCrim, issued the report detailing the enforcement action.
The municipal government said it remained committed to safeguarding local marine resources and protecting the sustainable livelihoods of coastal communities.
Danish seine, commonly called hulbot-hulbot in the Philippines, is a fishing method that uses a seine net and hauling ropes to encircle and gather fish. Its use is regulated under Philippine fisheries laws, and prohibited or unauthorized fishing practices may result in the apprehension of vessels and administrative or other applicable penalties.
The filing of the administrative case will determine the appropriate action against those involved. The apprehension itself does not establish final liability, which must be determined through the applicable legal process.