Villa Flora M. Rosos

INITAO, Misamis Oriental — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Region 10 (BFAR-10), through the Provincial Fisheries Office of Misamis Oriental, successfully held a Deputation Training for Fish Wardens from July 15 to 17, 2025, which included an orientation on the Fisheries Law Enforcement (FLE) Manual of Operations.

The activity aims to strengthen the enforcement of the Philippine Fisheries Code (Republic Act 8550 as amended by RA 10654), by equipping local enforcers to become deputized fish warden (DFW) with the necessary technical knowledge and operational skills to enforce fisheries laws and protect aquatic resources.

The training commenced with a series of lectures and practical sessions focusing on key topics, including Fisheries Office Order No. 033 (DFW Guidelines), roles of implementing agencies, municipal fisheries management, and boat ad-measurement procedures. Practical demonstrations on actual vessel measurement were also conducted.

In the afternoon, BFAR-10 personnel facilitated discussions on relevant sections of the fisheries law, such as prohibited acts, corresponding penalties, and regulations on the use of illegal fishing gear, including fine mesh nets and active gear in the  municipal waters. Participants were trained to identify fish caught using explosives and to conduct physical examinations of suspect samples based on internal and external appearances (morphology).

The second day focused on crime scene management, including appropriate use of force, legal procedures for search and seizure, and issuance of enforcement-related documentation. Sessions also included marine mammal stranding response, identification of prohibited aquatic species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and simulations of standard law enforcement procedures.

On the third day, participants engaged in a vessel boarding simulation. The exercise covered protocols for approaching and inspecting vessels of interest, team composition, and communication procedures, providing a comprehensive application of the knowledge and skills developed during the training.

The activity concluded with an open forum and the signing of a commitment pledge, underscoring the continued collaboration between BFAR, local government units, and deputized fish wardens in upholding fisheries laws and protecting marine resources.

This initiative forms part of BFAR-10’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable fisheries management, support effective law enforcement, and protect coastal and marine ecosystems through local capacity building and inter-agency cooperation.