CEBU CITY – Bohol Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado has expressed concern over a Supreme Court ruling that allowed commercial fishers to operate within municipal waters.
AUMENTADO (center). (FB)
Aumentado said the ruling that upheld a Regional Trial Court decision that declared the exclusive access of small fisherfolk to the 15-kilometer municipal waters unconstitutional may negatively affect the livelihood of Bohol’s small fisherfolk.
The governor said many of the fisherfolk in Bohol rely on these waters to support their families.
Under the Fisheries Code, these waters are reserved for marginal fisherfolk to protect their livelihood and ensure sustainable marine resource management.
“I cannot allow to place our small fishermen at a disadvantage,” Aumentado stated, reaffirming his commitment to supporting Boholano fisherfolk.
Aumentado recognized the ongoing efforts of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, non-government organizations, lawyers, and other groups to challenge the ruling.
The governor expressed hope that they will be successful in securing a reversal of the decision through the legal process.
He called on the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, led by Vice Gov. Tita Baja, to draft an ordinance to protect Boholano fisherfolk and conserve marine resources.
To address the issue, the proposed ordinance will include consultations with fisherfolk, stakeholders, and provincial government departments.
It will be aligned with local policies crafted to protect the interests of fisherfolk within the bounds of the law, including the decision.
This initiative reflects the commitment of the provincial government to its Strategic Change Agenda on environmental sustainability and livelihood improvement.
As the first and only United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization Global Geopark and Regenerative Island in the country, the province holds a responsibility to safeguard its unique ecosystems while supporting inclusive development for its communities.
Aumentado emphasized that he respects the decision and wisdom of the SC, believing that it was thoroughly deliberated with due regard to existing laws and the rights of all parties.
“The provincial government will follow its decision as it forms part of the laws of the land, but we will still craft policies to protect the interests of our fisherfolks in the province,” he added.