Environmentalists Commend Capitol’s Bantay Dagat

Environmentalist Antonio A. Oposa Jr. and daughter Anna Oposa of Visayan Sea Squadron and Save Philippine Seas, respectively, have commended Provincial Anti-Illegal Fishing Task Force (PAIFTF) and its chief Loy Madrigal for their active campaign against illegal fishing.

“We are particularly impressed by the performance of the Cebu Provincial Bantay Dagat team headed by Mr. Loy Madrigal. Mr. Madrigal has shown the seriousness of purpose, determined persistence, street-smart resourcefulness, and a sense of urgency that we have not seen in a long time,” said the open letter undersigned by the Oposas and published in Save Philippine Seas official website.

The Oposas have acknowledged Madrigal and his team for the “major successes” in the apprehension of individuals believed to be involved in the illegal fishing activities.

“What makes these accomplishments even more impressive is that they have been achieved with very little resources in terms of manpower, floating assets, and financial and legal support. Of particular note is Mr. Madrigal’s can-do spirit and the sense of urgency that he exhibits in the conduct of his work,” the letter read.

The team, in the past months, has seized several endangered shark meats and fins, sea shells, birds, fish and others. Apprehended men have also been charged before the courts.

For his part, Madrigal said they are only doing their duty as part of Gov. Hilario Davide III’s promise to stop illegal fishing in Cebu.

Madrigal said he is just glad that they have the support of the public.

Image Credit: www.cebu.gov.ph