Coast Guard dismantles 32 illegal fish cages, traps off Cavite City

Personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) dismantled at least 32 illegally structured fish cages and stationary fish traps off Cavite City on Thursday.

The PCG, along with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Cavite local officials, earlier warned owners of the illegal fish cages and traps to dismantle the structures last October 25.

The Coast Guard conducted the follow-up operation after 10 days to ensure compliance with the released order.

Meanwhile, the authorities continued to deploy forces in monitoring and filing cases against the owners of the illegal fish cages.

They are also authorized to remove floating hazards to navigation, including illegal fish structures and vessels, at or close to sea lanes which may cause hazards to the marine environment.

The joint operation of the PCG and DENR was in line with the Supreme Court ruling to 13 government agencies regarding the Writ of Mandamus in the prevention of Manila Bay Pollution and Republic Act No. 9993 or the Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009. — Richa Noriega/BM, GMA News