Tagkawayan, Guinayangan seek removal of territorial water boundaries

By Rowena Cruz During the dialogue, the participants discussed the possible benefits and challenges of removing territorial water boundaries...

By Rowena Cruz

During the dialogue, the participants discussed the possible benefits and challenges of removing territorial water boundaries between Guinayangan and Juanito Panganiban. (Photo from Guinayangan PIO)

GUINAYANGAN, Quezon - Tagkawayan Mayor Carlo Eleazar, Municipal Agriculture Officer Juanito Panganiban, and Guinayangan's former Mayor Boyboy Isaac, representing the current Mayor Maden Isaac, jointly hosted a dialogue and consultation meeting recently with fisherfolks to discuss the potential removal of territorial water boundaries between the two towns.

At the meeting were members of the fishers associations from both towns, Municipal Agriculture Officer William Lopez Jr., Agriculture Office representatives, the Philippine National Police Maritime Group under PCPT Joseph Pica, and other officials.



The purpose of the dialogue was to gather insights and opinions from the fisherfolks regarding the removal of territorial water boundaries between Tagkawayan and Guinayangan and its potential impact on their livelihoods.

The officials also aimed to find common ground and explore possible solutions that would benefit both communities while ensuring sustainable fishing practices in the area. This initiative is to grant fishers from both Guinayangan and Tagkawayan greater freedom in their livelihoods.

Once the artificial boundaries were removed, fishers would no longer be restricted to specific areas, thereby reducing anxiety about violating territorial fishing laws and allowing them to explore new fishing grounds. This could lead to increased catch and potentially higher income for the fisherfolks.

In order to oversee the implementation of these new measures, the two sides agreed to establish a joint committee consisting of representatives from both communities. This committee will work together to monitor fishing activities, enforce regulations, and address any conflicts that may arise.

Both mayors protect marine resources and promote sustainable fishing practices within their respective communities. They understand the importance of preserving the marine ecosystem for future generations and are committed to educating their fisherfolks on responsible fishing techniques.