SUGBONGCOGON, Misamis Oriental — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Region 10 (BFAR-10), through its Provincial Fisheries Office (PFO) in Misamis Oriental, conducted an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign for local fisherfolk and leaders from  five coastal barangays in Sugbongcogon, Misamis Oriental, on August 20, 2026. 

Leaders and fishers from Barangays Poblacion, Sta. Cruz, Alicomohan, Kiraging Silad, and Mangga studied Republic Act No. 10654, which strengthens efforts to prevent, deter, and eliminate illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and amends Republic Act No. 8550, otherwise known as the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998. 

The activity aims to strengthen community participation in fisheries law enforcement and promote the responsible use and sustainable management of fisheries and aquatic resources.

Alimar Sanchez of the Fisheries Protection and Law Enforcement Group (FPLEG) served as the key speaker and discussed the key provisions of RA 10654 for the participants, including prohibited fishing activities, fisheries conservation measures, and the responsibilities of stakeholders in protecting fisheries and aquatic resources.

Sanchez stressed that safeguarding marine resources and upholding laws requires a unified front among BFAR, LGUs, local leaders, and fisherfolk.

“Effective fisheries law enforcement requires the active participation of communities, particularly those directly involved in and dependent on fishing,” he said.

The IEC campaign also helped participants understand their roles in reporting fisheries violations and supporting responsible fishing practices. Barangay officials were encouraged to assist in identifying and reporting violations and coordinating with concerned authorities for proper action. The event gave local fisherfolk a clearer understanding of their rights and responsibilities as resource users, highlighting how legal compliance protects both marine life and their long-term livelihoods.

The open forum allowed participants to air local concerns and questions, giving BFAR-10 the opportunity to clarify complex legal clauses and resolve community-specific fishing issues.

Moving forward, BFAR-10 plans to sustain its partnership with LGUs and coastal communities to promote responsible fishing practices and protect fisheries resources for present and future generations.