LEGAZPI CITY – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Bicol is conducting an investigation and coordination with the local government unit (LGU) of Matnog in Sorsogon province after confirming the sale of sharks in the market.
In an interview on Wednesday, Rowena Briones, BFAR-Bicol spokesperson, said that after receiving the report, the agency personnel went to Matnog Market with the Provincial Law Enforcement Coordination Committee (PLECC) and identified the sharks being sold as Coral Catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus) and Whitetip Reef Shark (Triaenodon obesus) species.
"The vendors' identities were not identified, as they had already abandoned the area when the authorities arrived," Briones said.
Regular market inspections and monitoring will be carried out to prevent vendors from selling prohibited species of sharks.
"An information campaign was conducted in the market. It will also be conducted among residents in the coastal areas and vendors, as well as the LGU, to ensure that existing fishery laws are effectively enforced to deter illegal activities and protect the shark population," she said.
Briones said that posters listing protected sharks and corresponding photos were printed and displayed in the market.
She said the Coral Catshark is not listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), but other applicable regulations cover its capture and trade.
BFAR Bicol said the Whitetip Reef Shark is classified as a vulnerable species under Appendix II of CITES. The law prohibits the catching, possession, transport, sale, and trade of this species, including whole animals and their parts, such as shark fins.
Violations of these regulations carry penalties, including imprisonment from five to eight years and fines ranging from PHP300,000 to PHP3 million.
Republic Act 10654, an "Act to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing", strengthens the protection of sharks and manta rays.
It includes provisions against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, particularly for endangered, threatened, or vulnerable species. (PNA)
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