The provincial government of Iloilo plans to appeal a Supreme Court decision that permits commercial fishing vessels to operate within the 15-kilometer boundary of municipal waters.
The ruling, which upheld a Malabon Regional Trial Court decision, has sparked concerns among local fishermen, as it invalidates restrictions on commercial fishing and shifts regulatory authority to national agencies.
Iloilo Provincial Administrator Raul Banias stated that the provincial government is committed to challenging the decision, citing its negative impact on small-scale fishers and local governance.
To support their appeal, Iloilo officials will prepare a position paper and seek endorsements from local stakeholders.
The provincial government aims to have the decision reviewed by the Supreme Court en banc.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 14, 2025
