By Al Jun B. Magamano

MAIGO, Lanao del Norte (June 13) – Led by Municipal Mayor Rafael “Paeng” Rizalda, together with local officials and representatives from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-10 (BFAR-10), twenty fisherfolk from this town, after completing the Deputized Fish Warden Training program, officially graduated as Deputized Fish Wardens (DFWs) last June 11 at the Maigo Municipal Hall.

The appointed DFWs, who are also members of the local fishing communities, underwent intensive training to equip them with the necessary skills to support the enforcement of fisheries laws and promote sustainable fishing practices. 

The training covered key enforcement topics including Seaborne Patrol Operations to monitor fishing activities within municipal waters, Market and Landing Denial procedures to prevent the entry of illegally caught fish into local markets, and Conduct of Fisheries Checkpoints to monitor compliance during fish transport and trade.

Participants also engaged in actual court observation activities at the Lanao del Norte Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC) Branch 4 in Maigo to understand the judicial process and strengthen their ability to serve as witnesses in fisheries-related cases. Legal discussions on Republic Act 8550, or the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, as amended by RA 10654, were also conducted which outlined the updated penalties and enforcement mechanisms for illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. 

In addition, the trainees were oriented on the Maigo Municipal Fisheries Ordinance to ensure alignment between national and local fisheries policies and law enforcement within their territorial waters.

In his message during the ceremony, Mayor Rizalda expressed his appreciation for BFAR’s commitment to coastal protection and emphasized the critical role of the newly deputized fish wardens. 

“This initiative is a significant step towards strengthening our local efforts to protect and preserve our municipal waters. Through this training, our wardens have been equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively enforce our fishery laws and safeguard our coastal resources, especially against illegal fishing activities. 

Rizalda further noted that this role is crucial in ensuring the sustainability of the marine environment and the livelihood of fisherfolk.

“I commend each graduate for their dedication and commitment to serve. Let us continue to work together—LGU, BFAR, and the community—in promoting responsible and sustainable fisheries management. Together, we can build a future where our seas remain abundant and our people thrive,” he added.

Meanwhile, Fishing Regulations Officer Cheryl Magante, Fisheries Protection and Law Enforcement Group team leader of the Provincial Fisheries Office of Lanao Del Norte, also emphasized the importance of grassroots enforcement in strengthening fisheries law implementation. 

“Kini nga mga DFWs mao ang extension sa atong paningkamot sa pagpugong sa illegal fishing ug sa pagpanalipod sa kadagatan. Gilauman nato nga pinaagi sa ilang presensya sa komunidad, mas mapalig-on ang atong implementasyon sa balaod ug mas mapaabot nato ang mensahe sa responsableng pangisda,” Magante noted.

[Our DFWs serve as our counterpart in our efforts to combat illegal fishing and protect our seas. We hope that through their presence in the community, the enforcement of fisheries laws will be strengthened and our advocacy on responsible fishing will be more effectively communicated.]

This program is part of BFAR’s broader effort to empower coastal communities, promote responsible fishing, and strengthen local enforcement capacity. The graduation of the Maigo DFWs is another significant step in safeguarding marine resources and ensuring the long-term viability of the town’s fisheries sector.