A group of notable figures, including Atty. Christian Monsod, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, and Atty. Grizelda Mayo-Anda has asked the Supreme Court to overturn a December 2023 decision by the Malabon Regional Trial Court that allowed commercial fishing within municipal waters, traditionally reserved for small-scale fishers.
The petitioners argue that allowing commercial vessels in these areas threatens the livelihoods of subsistence fishers and the health of marine ecosystems.
The court’s ruling struck down local government jurisdiction over municipal waters and diminished protections for small-scale fishers, which the petitioners argue is a violation of constitutional rights.
They also criticized the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) and the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) for their weak defense of the Fisheries Code, which contributed to the ruling.
The petitioners are urging the Supreme Court to reaffirm constitutional protections and safeguard the rights of coastal communities and the environment.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 25, 2025
