29/04/2026
𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐤𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Fisherfolk leaders, government agencies, and environmental advocates recently gathered for a two-day summit aimed at strengthening coastal law enforcement and marine protection in Eastern Samar.
Organized by Rare Philippines – Eastern Visayas Chapter, the Leyte Gulf Fishery Law Enforcement Summit brought together 76 participants from the municipalities of Guiuan, Mercedes, Salcedo, Quinapundan, Giporlos, Balangiga, and Lawaan. It was conducted in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Philippine Coast Guard.
The summit focused on empowering local fisherfolk through training on environmental laws, maritime surveillance, and proper documentation of violations. Participants enhanced their understanding of key regulations, including fisheries and forestry laws, and strengthened their capacity to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Mr. Gil R. Pombo, Legal Analyst of CENRO Borongan, delivered a lecture on PD 705 or the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines, the National Integrated Protected Areas System Act, and other relevant environmental laws.
Workshops and discussions also fostered stronger collaboration among communities and enforcement agencies, encouraging fisherfolks to take a more active role in protecting marine ecosystems. Organizers emphasized that equipping local stakeholders with enforcement skills helps safeguard biodiversity while supporting long-term food security and sustainable livelihoods in coastal communities.
The initiative forms part of continuing efforts to promote community-based environmental stewardship and ensure sustainable resource management in the region.
