The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Central Visayas has escalated its efforts to combat the illegal practice of dynamite fishing within the region. Alberto Simbajon Jr., who oversees the Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance Unit at BFAR-7, emphasized that while the use of explosives in fishing has decreased, it remains a concern in areas such as Bantayan Island, Cordova in Cebu, and the double barrier reef in Bohol. BFAR-7 is not only increasing its maritime patrols but also enhancing its educational outreach to inform fishers about the detrimental effects of dynamite fishing on marine ecosystems. Under Republic Act 10654, individuals caught using dynamite face severe penalties, as demonstrated by a recent case where a fisherman from Zamboanga was fined PHP2.5 million for illegal fishing in Visayan waters. BFAR-7 is also promoting alternative livelihoods to deter fishers from resorting to dynamite fishing. The agency collaborates with local government units through the Bantay Dagat Task Forces to enforce fishing regulations effectively across Central Visayas.
