'Bantay Dagat' learns speed boat operations, surveillance techniques to effectively patrol coastal areas

By Rowena Cruz Bantay Dagat during the speed boat operations and surveillance techniques of the local government in Mauban, Quezon. to ensur...

By Rowena Cruz

Bantay Dagat during the speed boat operations and surveillance techniques of the local government in Mauban, Quezon. to ensure the safety of the community and protect the marine environment. (Photo from Ninong Erwin Pastrana/FACEBOOK)

MAUBAN, Quezon -Every coastal local government unit (LGU) must have its own community-based volunteer group trained by organizations such as Bantay Dagat to patrol and monitor their specific coastal areas. These volunteer groups are critical to the security and sustainability of our marine resources because they have the expertise and abilities to respond to various maritime accidents and enforce local fishing laws. 

Mauban, Quezon, is one example of a coastal LGU that has recently successfully implemented this approach. Their community-based volunteer group, known as "Bantay Dagat ng Mauban," has been instrumental in deterring illegal fishing activities and protecting their marine ecosystem. With their presence and vigilance, Mauban has seen a significant decrease in illegal fishing incidents and an improvement in the overall health of their coastal waters.



A recent training program was conducted by the LGU to further enhance the skills and knowledge of the Bantay Dagat ng Mauban volunteers. The training focused on identifying different fishing methods and techniques used by illegal fishermen, as well as educating them on the importance of sustainable fishing practices. 

Mauban Mayor Erwin Pastrana stated that this training would improve their abilities to respond to maritime accidents, apprehend unauthorized sea vessels, and assist people in distress at sea. By equipping the volunteers with knowledge on illegal fishing methods, they will be better equipped to identify and intercept these activities, ultimately deterring illegal fishermen from exploiting the marine resources.

He thanked Bantay Dagat for their commitment to preserving the marine ecosystem and expressed his hope that this collaboration would lead to a significant decrease in illegal fishing activities in the area. The mayor also emphasized the need for continuous monitoring and enforcement efforts to maintain the sustainability of their marine resources for future generations.