Peaceful and Orderly Christmas Celebration

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PAGADIAN CITY (Dec. 26, 2019) – The celebration of Christmas has been generally peaceful  in Zamboanga Peninsula. The Police Regional Office 9 is in full alert status and personnel were deployed in full force to assure the peace and security of the people, PRO9 Public Information Officer PMajor Helen L. Galvez disclosed.

Galvez said that PRO9 PBGen. Froilan F Quidilla had deployed personnel in different churches since the start of Misa de Gallo up to the evening Mass before Christmas. There were also deployed in Airports, Seaports, Terminals, major thoroughfares and commercial establishments.

PBGen. Quidilla reminded once again the citizens regarding of firecracker ban and illegal discharge of firearms campaign through TRIMPS has also contributed to the said success of celebration. There was no incident recorded for stray bullets and illegal discharge of firearms.

PBGen. Quidilla commended the efforts of the personnel who sacrificed not to be with their own families to keep the community safe. He also thanked the community for their strong support and cooperation in the success of the activity. (By JONG CADION with PRO9 PIO Press Release)

WestMinCom celebrates Yuletide Season

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PAGADIAN CITY (Dec. 13, 2019) - Military and civilian personnel of Western Mindanao Command celebrated the Yuletide Season through a line of activities in Zamboanga City on Thursday, December 12.

            WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana joined other Catholic brethren during the thanksgiving mass in Camp Navarro at 8am.

Said mass was officiated by Fr. Francisco Bustamante of the Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Lt. Col. Reynaldo Narisma of the WestMinCom Post Catholic Chaplain, and Maj. Randolph Lanaja of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao Post Catholic Chaplain.

            Lt. Gen. Sobejana and other top military officials were named godfathers to more than a hundred infants and adults baptized at WestMinCom chapel at 9am.

The WestMinCom commander and his wife, Mrs. Edna Sobejana, gave financial assistance and packages to families

            At 9am, Lt. Gen. Sobejana distributed presents to more than 150 children of organic personnel who participated in the series of games held at WestMinCom Clubhouse.

            Organic personnel and their dependents also gathered during the party hosted respectively by the various offices under the WestMinCom at 12 noon.

            Security counterparts and other stakeholders joined military and non-uniformed personnel during the Christmas Village Party held at WestMinCom Grandstand at 6pm.

            WestMinCom personnel were divided into five clusters, each presenting their skit, and dance number. They received raffle draw prizes, awards, and packages from the commander.

            “I would like to take this opportunity to thank you (WestMinCom personnel) for your unwavering support and cooperation, enabling us to accomplish our various missions during the past 12 months,” said Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

            “You extended extra efforts to ensure that the spirit of Christmas is felt in this camp. This definitely inspires us to cleanse our hearts from all bad feelings and unite us even more as a great team that we already are. Remember that there is no bigger gift than being together as a family, enjoying the peace and love of this wonderful season,” he added.

            He thanked stakeholders and local officials present for their con tinued support and cooperation with the peace initiatives of the military. (By JONG CADION with WesMinCom PAO Press Relasses 

2 high-powered firearms handed over by 3 BIFF surrenderors

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PAGADIAN CITY (Dec. 13, 2019) - The intensified focused and intelligence operations of the 40th Infantry Battalion led to the yielding of 3 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and handing over of their undocumented firearms at 10am of December 11, 2019.

The BIFF were identified as Ustadz Yasser Saligan, a.k.a, Morsid, a BIFF member under Karialan Faction, together with Norudin Dalinding, and Omar Tatang, all residents of Sitio Balagon, Barangay Midpandacan, General Salipada K. Pendatun, Maguindanao, surrendered bringing along one M14 rifle with one magazine; one M1 Garand Rifle; and five rounds of 7.62mm,  five rounds Caliber .30, and two rounds 81mm UXO ammunitions.

            “Our sustained campaigns in ending terrorism in our area of operations compel more terrorists to surrender and return to the mainstream society,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

            “I commend the troops of the Joint Task Force Central under Major General Carreon for their commitment and significant accomplishments during my incumbency as the commander of WestMinCom,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.          

            Said surrenderors and their firearms were brought to headquarters, 40IB in Barangay Tual, President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat for proper documentation. (By JONG CADION with WesMinCom PAO press release and photos)

BIFF’s war materials recovered anew in Maguindanao

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PAGADIAN CITY De. 5, 2019 - Military troops recovered anew several arms and explosives as they pound on eluding BIFF rebels in Maguindanao.

Soldiers of the 33rd Infantry Battalion recovered two Cal. HM Barrette rifles, two 7.62mm rifles, one Rocket-Propelled Grenade, one M79 Grenade Launcher, one 81mm unexploded ordnance, IED paraphernalia, three warhead 81mm mortars, and other war materials while clearing Barangay Lapok in Shariff Aguak at 10am on December 3.

At 11:30am on December 3, soldiers recovered anew one Carbine rifle and medical equipment left by wounded BIFF rebels after a fierce fight with government troops in Barangay Tukanallipao, Mamasapano.

Clearing operations by combined troops of the 33IB and the 5th Special Forces Battalion further led to the recovery of one shotgun, one 9mm Ingram, two improvised explosives, and subversive documents in Barangay Lapok at 1:30pm on Tuesday.

Troops brought said materials to the 33IB command group for consolidation.

“Military forces pursue the enemy of the state in a very deliberate manner to drive the terrorists out of their strongholds,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“We are determined to disintegrate terrorist groups and purge central area from terrorism and violence,” he added. (By JONG CADION with WesMinCom Press Release and Photos)

UPDATE of the two NPA Leaders who were arrested in SND

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PAGADIAN CITY, ZDS (Dec. 01, 2019) – The two Communist NPA Terrorists (CNT) leaders who were arrested in a joint checkpoint operation by AFP and PNP troops in Brgy Dableston, Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte, yesterday, have undergone inquest proceeding before the Lanao, del Norte prosecutor’s office today, December 2, 2019.

Accordingly, Christopher Cañete y Ruiz, known as Alias Glock and Virjon Virtudazo y Sagaysay also known as alias Thunder revealed the identities of other members of their group and some are allegedly hiding in plain sight.

They also revealed identities of their supporters, their locations and future plans. But details of their revelations are withheld for now pending further verification and investigation.

According to Brig. Gen. Bagnus Gaerlan Jr, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) acting commander, the current successful arrest and previous armed engagement with NPAs and other threat groups  were widely due to the AFP’s newly acquired imaging technology which will be further enhanced in the coming year.

He further invited local NPA members, which he described as the exploited ones, to lay down their arms and return to the folds of our law through our E-CLIP program. (By JONG CADION with Tabak DPAO PR and Photos)

2 NPA Leaders Arrested, Reveals Arms Cache in Lanao Norte

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PAGADIAN CITY, ZDS (Dec. 01, 2019) – Two Communist NPA Terrorists (CNT) leaders were apprehended in a joint checkpoint operation by the troops of 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, 49th Infantry Battalion and 2nd Maneuver Platoon, Regional Mobile Force Battalion, PNP in Brgy Dableston, Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte, at 12:00 p.m. midnight, Sunday, December 1, 2019.

“The two were identified as Christopher Cañete y Ruiz or known as Alias Glock and Virjon Virtudazo y Sagaysay also known as alias Thunder” said Lt. Col. Rolando Orengo, 5th Mech Battalion Commander.

“Both were armed with one caliber .45 pistol, one caliber .38 revolver, an improvised explosive device and its paraphernalia and a rifle grenade during the apprehension”, he added. 

During the custodial debriefing, Cañete and Virtuzado revealed to the troops an arms cache located in Brgy San Isidro, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.

Around 11:30 a.m. same day, the follow-up operation resulted into the discovery of seven M16 rifles, one AR18 rifle, one M203 Grenade Launcher, one caliber 38 revolver, 29 pcs. Bandoliers, 286 pcs. Magazines for m16 and 2,000 rounds of ammunitions.

According to Brig. Gen. Facundo Palafox IV, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander, who was operational jurisdiction of Lanao del Norte, “This is a big blow to the CNTs of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee because both were occupying top positions in their organization”.

 “Cañete is a commander of one of the guerilla front companies, while Virtuzado is in charge of the recruitment and brainwashing the minds of their recruits in hinterlands of Iligan, Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental area”, added Palafox.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Bagnus Gaerlan Jr, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) acting commander, commended the efforts of the troops for the apprehension of two and the discovery of CNT’s arms cache.

“This significant accomplishment will weaken the CNTs recruitment and organizational works in our area of operation”, Gaerlan said.    

“We urged the youth, indigenous peoples and the locals to be more vigilant and report to our troops the presence of armed and other threat groups in their communities”, Gaerlan added. (By JONG CADION with Tabak DPAO PR and Photos)

Yuletide Spirit is alive in PRO9

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 Camp Col. Romeo Abendan, Zamboanga City – One of the most awaited holiday is Christmas. Police Regional Office 9 officially opens the yuletide season with the simultaneous lighting of the Christmas Tree and Lanterns on December 2, 2019.

Major Helen L. Galvez, PRO0 PIO disclosed that this year, PRO9 advocates an eco-friendly celebration to help save Mother Earth. A total of 19 entries of lanterns were submitted, which were made by the personnel themselves from different divisions made from recyclable and compostable materials.

Galvez said, the highlight of the event was the human formation of 500 personnel of Pascua 2019 star in the parade grounds of Camp Abendan and the fireworks display.

PRO9 Regional Director PBGen. Froilan F. Quidilla said in his message PNP serves as a shining light of hope to the people they serve. He also added that the personnel should fulfill its mandate to the people and maintain the peace and order during the season. (By JONG CADION with PRO9 PIO PR and Photos)

Loose Firearms Surrender in Lanao Norte

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PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (Nov. 28, 2019) – A total of 20 loose firearms were turned over by the locals of Magsaysay, Lanao del Norte to the 5th Mechanized Battalion in the Municipal hall 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 27, 2019.

“The concerted effort and intensified collaboration among our troops, PNP, local communities, local chief executives and other stakeholders resulted into this momentous activity”, said Lt. Col. Rolando Orengo, 55th Mech Battalion Commander.

The turned-over loose firearms were consist of one FAL Caliber 7.62, one M14, three M16A1, one M635 with grenade launcher, four carbine rifles; and ten handguns.

Mayor Haron Omar Sr. who facilitated the turn-over of the loose firearms thanked the Army for their effort in sustaining peace and development in the municipality.

He also assured the continuous collaboration and support of the local government to the 5th Mech Battalion.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Facundo Palafox IV, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander who has operational jurisdiction over Lanao del Norte said that “This is part of our campaign against proliferation of loose firearms so that our people would feel more secured and safe in their daily activities.”

Palafox also urged the locals to cooperate and report to proper authorities for the proliferation of firearms in their communities.

For his part, Brig. Gen. Bagnus Gaerlan Jr., the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) acting commander, lauded the troops, the local government unit and stakeholders of Magsaysay.

“I urge everyone to continue our efforts in pursuing lasting peace not just for Mindanao but for the whole country. Let us conquer the challenges ahead of us and step up the momentum in sustaining our gains for our common aspiration”, said Gaerlan.

Gaerlan also asked for the trust and support of the constituents, local government units and stakeholders to the Armed Forces of the Philippines who continuously strive to attain just and lasting peace in the country. (By JONG CADION with DPAO Press release and photos)

RTF – ELCAC IX Launches the ZAPD Convergence Program

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LAPUYAN, Zamboanga del Sur (Nov. 27, 2019) – The Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) for Region IX (ZAMPEN Region) launched its flagship program dubbed ZAMPEN (Zamboanga Peninsula) Area for Peace and Development or ZAPD in Brgy San Jose, Lapuyan last Tuesday, November 26, 2019.

ZAPD aims to synergize the efforts of all government agencies in the region and other partner NGOs for the clearing of CPP-NPA influenced areas and making cleared communities resilient from the resurgence of CPP-NPA influence.

In compliance to the EO 70, which is better known as the Whole Of Nation approach to end local communist insurgency, the concept of ZAPD is to bring development and security to vulnerable communities so that social issues which are encouraging our citizens to support and join the local insurgency will be addressed for good.

The activity was graced by USec Rene Glenn Paje, Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, DSWD as guest of honor.

USec Paje was accompanied by Gov Victor J Yu of Zamboanga del Sur who is also very actively implementing his province’s version of the TF-ELCAC.

Lapuyan Mayor Joel Sulong, as host of the area, was also present to receive the guests and participants of the event, and to express his unconditional support to the program.

Also in attendance were Colonel Leonel Nicolas, the commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Marlowe Patria, commanding officer of the 53rd Infantry Battallion, heads and representatives of regional offices.

After his message Governor Yu rang the traditional gong three times to symbolize the start of the ZAPD program, after which the RTF-ELCAC IX logo, which was mainly designed by the 1st Infantry Division, was officially unveiled by the distinguishes guests.

The program ended with signing of pledge of commitment to the program by the guests, IP leaders, and the locals.

During his speech Hon. Victor Yu, Governor of Zamboanga del Sur, assured the locals of Lapuyan that his administration is seriously implementing programs to bring about progress in conflict affected communities which includes Lapuyan. He also vowed to pave the road in the area to give the people of San Jose and its adjacent barangays better opportunities to prosper.

“I am happy to announce that with the RTF-ELCAC IX, more NPAs surrendered to our government forces. We also urged the local officials and leaders to discourage the constituents in supporting or joining the NPAs”, Yu said.

Meanwhile, Usec. Rene Glen Paje of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) who represented Sec. Rolando Bautista, during his speech said that, “The Task Force will deliver the basic services and encourage good governance. This will also answer the problem of peace and security in our communities”.

“I enjoin everyone to support the Regional Task Force ELCAC, the local government agencies and units in order to attain a just and lasting peace and sustainable development for our communities and for our future generations”, Paje added.

For his part, Brig. Gen. Bagnus Gaerlan Jr., the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan (Zamboanga Peninsula and Lanao Provinces) Acting commander, lauded the Local government units, government agencies, 53rd Infantry Battalion and 102nd Infantry Brigade for the momentous activity.

General Gaerlan quoted that “Inter-agency convergence will bring inclusive and sustainable development in the conflict affected communities in our area of operations. Convergence will speed up our clearing of the conflict affected areas and its development. We also encourage the NPAs to surrender and lay down their firearms and benefit from the programs of the RTF – ELCAC IX for the benefit of their families and their communities”.

In conjunction with the launching ceremony was an RTF-ELCAC IX Serbisyo Caravan which catered to more than 1000 locals who availed of the services which the various government agencies delivered to the area. The 1st Infantry Division also actively participated in the activity thru the 53rd IB and the 1CMOBn whose responsible for the facilitation of medical assistance and distribution of 300 pairs of slippers during the event.

After the launching ceremony, the RTF-ELCAC IX secretariat, together with Governor Yu proceeded to the ground-breaking ceremony of the Zamboanga del Sur half-way house for former rebels which was facilitated by the 53rd IB in Poblacion, Guipos. Former rebels who are currently beneficiaries of the government’s Rebel Reintegration Program were also presented during the event. (By JONG CADION with DPAO Press release and photos)

WestMinCom chief graces arrival ceremony for PS-39

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PAGADIAN CITY (Nov. 5, 2019-mpf News) - WestMinCom commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana joined the officers, men, and women of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao in welcoming the newly acquired Philippine Navy ship in its visit in Zamboanga City, WesMinCom Official disclosed.

        WesMinCom spokesperson MAJ. Arvin G. Encinas said that the arrival ceremony was held at the Zamboanga City Pier at 9am Monday

BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) is an 88.3 meters long ship with a beam of 10 meters and draft of 2.9 meters that can accommodate 118 personnel and can sustain operational presence for 20 days, Encinas added.

“My warm and heartfelt welcome to the men and women of this ship headed by its Commanding Officer, Capt. Marco Buena to the Asia’s Latin City and the Sardines Capital of the Philippines,” said Lt. Gen. Sobejana during his remarks.

The acquisition of BRP Conrado Yap stemmed from the generosity of the South Korea government propelled by the strong relationship of the Philippine Navy and the Republic of Korea Navy that goes beyond friendship through the years.

The ship was named after a gallant Filipino military leader, Conrado Yap, who served in the Korean War as part of the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea. He was a captain of the Philippine Army who was considered as the most decorated Filipino Soldier during the Korean War.

“This ship is the 1st modern corvette and the most heavily-armed unit and the “most powerful ship” of the Philippine Navy to date because of its sonars and torpedo launchers capable of anti-submarine warfare,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana added.

Also present during the activity were Zamboanga City 2nd District Councilor John Dalipe and other invited guests.

“The capability upgrade program of the AFP is relentlessly pursued to modernize all its branches so that it could effectively secure the Philippine territory and uphold the integrity of our archipelagic nation.

“Moreover, we are certain that with everyone’s high sense of patriotism coupled with our firm commitment in promoting a culture of peace, we as a sovereign nation shall continue to grow in steady and sustainable manner,” Lt. Gen. Sobejana concluded. (By JONG CADION with WesMinCom PIO photos and press release)

Troops foil bomb plot in Basilan

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PAGADIAN CITY (Oct. 15, 2019) - While acting on a report received, troops of the Alpha Company of the 68th Infantry Battalion encountered more or less 15 Abu Sayyaf Group members in Barangay Calang Canas, Maluso, Basilan Province at wee hours of October 15, 2019.

“The troops were acting on a report received from a reliable source regarding the plan of Furuji Indama’s group to create havoc in our area of operation,” said Brig. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, Commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan.

Heavy firefight ensued that lasted for more or less 30 minutes after which the enemies withdrew bringing along their casualties with them.

While scouring the encounter site, operating troops together with K9 personnel recovered six Improvised Explosive Devices about to be laid along the Basilan Circumferential Road. Blood stains of enemy casualties are also noticeable in the area.

“We are grateful for we incurred no casualty during the operation and we were able to secure the IEDs and foil the bomb plot of the enemies,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, WestMinCom commander.

Troops are still in pursuit of the fleeing enemies while the IEDS were turned over to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team for proper disposition.

“The successful recovery of the IEDs is attributed to the concerned citizen who provided the information, to the local government units of Basilan, and to our gallant soldiers who are always steadfast in accomplishing their mission,” added Lt. Gen. Sobejana.(By JONG CADION with CPIO-WesMinCom press relase and photos)

Smuggled cigarettes confiscated in Zambo City

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PAGADIAN CITY (Oct. 16, 2019) - While conducting checkpoint operation, troops of the Joint Task Force Zamboanga intercepted one Toyota Revo loaded with smuggled cigarettes in Baliwasan Seaside, Zamboanga City at wee hours of October 13, 2019.

            Confiscated in the car boarded by Kahal Ridzkhan Ongkal and Auddih Altap Jubail, both residents of Mangal Drive, Barangay Baliwasan, Zamboanga City, were 20 boxes and 30 rims of smuggled cigarettes with no legal documents.

            “Congratulations the troops of the Joint Task Force for this very commendable accomplishment,” WestMinCom Commander Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana said.

             We have intensified our law enforcement support operations to thwart the cigarette smuggling activities and other criminalities in our area of operation,” added Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

            Said items were turned over to the Bureau of Customs for safekeeping prior disposition. (By JONG CADION With Photo and Press release from WesMinCom)

A Hero has Fallen

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PAGADIAN CITY (Oct. 16, 2019)– When a police officer steps out of his house, he knows for a fact that there’s a chance he might not go home alive by the end of his shift. Last October 13, 2019, while Patrolman Pedro Umpad and his buddy Patrolman Adamer Pandangan were rendering their duty during the wee hours of said date untoward incident happened.

They were responding to drag race complaint when a motorcycle riding suspects shot the officers several times.

Patrolman Pandangan was able to fire back however the suspects drove fast away from them. Thereat he (Pat. Pandangan) saw his buddy wounded which was immediately brought to the hospital but later was declared dead.

PBGen. Froilan F. Quidilla, Regional Director, condemns the inhumane killing of the perpetrators and directed for a thorough investigation on the case. 

He further added that the loss of Pat Umpad is a big loss to Police Regional Office 9 and to the PNP as a whole. His dedication and passion to serve and protect the community will never be put in vain. (By JONG CADION with PRO9-PIO)

P1.7M Worth of Prohibited Shells Intercepted in Zamboanga City

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PAGADIAN CITY (Sept. 2, 2019) - NAVFORWEM through Naval Intelligence Securty Group – Western Mindanao (NISG-WM) and Naval Special Operations Unit 6 (NAVSOU 6) intercepted one unmarked Jungkung-type watercraft loaded with thirteen (13) sacks of prohibited seashells on August 31, 2019 at vicinity Baliwasan Seaside, Zamboanga City.

NISG-WM and NAVSOU 6 were conducting maritime patrol at aforementioned vicinity when it chanced upon an unmarked Jungkong-type watercraft, which was newly moored at Wee Bin Pier, Baliwasan Seaside, Zamboanga City, loaded with prohibited seashells.

Upon conduct of investigation, it was found out that the said Jungkung – type watercraft, registered as M/V Mardia, which was loaded with prohibited seashells, emanated from Pangutaran, Sulu Province. The confiscated seashells were then turned over to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). As per conducted joint inventory, the watercraft was loaded with thirteen (13) sacks of prohibited seashells with a market value of One Million Seven Hundred Fifteen Thousand Pesos (P 1,715,000.00) and were accounted and identified as : 1) Helmet Shells – 157 pcs; 2) Trumphet Shell – 4 pcs; 3) Frog Shell – 35 pcs; 4) Bonnet Shell – 10 pcs; 5) Spider Cooch – 4 pcs; 6) Gold Lip Shell – 44 pcs; 7) Murex – 3 pcs and 8) Smooth Top Shell – 238 pcs.

Accordingly, M/V Mardia violated Section 102 of Republic Act 10654 or the amended Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 which states that “It shall be unlawful to fish, take, catch, gather, sell, purchase, possess, transport, export, forward or ship out aquatic species listed in CITES Appendices II and III if scientific assessments show that population of the species in the wild cannot remain viable under pressure of collection and trade: Provided, That the taking or fishing of these species from the wild for scientific research, or conservation breeding simultaneous with commercial breeding may be allowed. Violation of the provision is punishable with a fine equivalent to three (3) times the value of the species or Three hundred thousand pesos (P300,000.00) to Three million pesos (P3,000,000.00), whichever is higher, and forfeiture of the species. Furthermore, upon conviction by a court of law, the offender shall be punished by imprisonment of five (5) to eight (8) years and a fine equivalent to twice the administrative fine and forfeiture of the species.

Naval Forces Western Mindanao and the Philippine Navy as a whole, with its operating units, will continuously endeavor to not only protect the seawaters of Western Mindanao from any atrocities and sea jacking at sea but also in one with the government to promote the conservation and protection of rare, threatened and endangered species. (With NAVFORWEM PAP PR and Photos)