In a concerted effort to safeguard the natural resources of the Caraga Region, the Police Regional Office (PRO-13), alongside the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local government units, and community members, have made substantial strides in 2024. Their joint initiatives have focused on combating illegal fishing and logging, which have been detrimental to the region’s marine and forest ecosystems.
Throughout the year, PRO-13 executed 2,614 operations targeting illegal fishing, leading to the apprehension of 2,799 individuals. These operations resulted in the seizure of 52,532.7 kilograms of fish, valued at PHP1.7 million, and fishing equipment worth PHP26.3 million, totaling PHP28 million in confiscated goods. The Dinagat Islands Police Provincial Office reported the highest value of seizures at PHP11.5 million, with significant contributions from Surigao del Sur and Surigao del Norte at PHP8.3 million and PHP2.6 million, respectively. Agusan del Sur and Agusan del Norte also contributed to the effort with seizures valued at PHP2 million and PHP1.9 million.
The crackdown on illegal fishing has been crucial in protecting the region’s marine biodiversity, with local governments and communities playing a vital role in supporting these operations.
In addition to marine conservation, the region has intensified its efforts against illegal logging. PRO-13 conducted 151 operations, arresting 113 individuals and seizing 105,540.86 board feet of illegally sourced timber, valued at PHP4.4 million. The Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office led in timber seizures with 32,491.5 board feet worth PHP1.8 million, followed by the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 13 with 35,327.91 board feet valued at PHP1 million.
The collaborative approach between the police, DENR, local governments, and communities has been essential in tackling environmental issues and strengthening enforcement measures in the Caraga Region.