DENR vows dismantling of 370 illegal fish pens, cages in Cavite

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will dismantle at least 370 illegal fish pens and cages as part of the Manila Bay Rehabilitation project.

DENR Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management and Local Government Units Concerns Benny Antiporda said these illegal structures, located in Cavite City as well as in Kawit and Noveleta in Cavite province, did not secure permits from the DENR.

“A dialogue was made prior and it was clear they have no permit and at the same time, the bamboo stalks used for those are being awashed in Baywalk Area [along Roxas Boulevard in Manila],” Antiporda said during the Laging Handa briefing.

“Once and for all, we have to address this problem because ridding of illegal fish pens and cages will benefit fisherfolk engaged in honest livelihood. Those who will be affected by dismantling of fish pens are just those who get their salaries from investors behind these illegal activity,” he added.

Antiporda said that destroying the illegal fish pens and cages is also compliant with existing law that municipal waters should extended 15 kilometers from the shoreline.

“So let us not get swayed by those who claim that this will be put fisherfolk at a disadvantage because it is the other way around. This is for the benefit of our fisherfolk who will now be free to fish in municipal waters,” Antiporda said. — BM, GMA News