By Nycel Jane Dela
The Capiz Provincial Bantay Dagat (CPBD) won a national award for its strong enforcement of the amended Philippine Fisheries Code.
The CPBD was among the recipients of the Gawad Parangal sa mga Kabalikat ng Pangisdaan at Yamang Tubig by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
CPBD Chief Lyndofer “Glenn” Beup led the delegation in accepting the award during the 63rd Fish Conservation Week in Metro Manila last September 18, 2026.
Beup attributed the award to combined efforts of national government agencies (NGAs), local government units (LGUs), fisherfolks, and the Capiz Provincial Government under the Castro administration.
The CPBD works with the Capiz Bay Management Council with members from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police (PNP), and BFAR.
Joining Beup at the awarding were Sarah May Salaya, Police Senior Master Sergeant Bescor Besoña, and Jose Borres.
The CPBD team was also assisted by BFAR Regional Director Remia Aparri and BFAR Capiz OIC Alvin Beltran.
The CPBD recorded 529 seaborne patrol operations, removed 230 bamboo poles, and warned 745 marginal fisherfolk against illegal trawl fishing from 2023 to 2026. It also generated P2.92 million in fines and penalties during the period.
The CPBD also faced danger when its two patrol boats were destroyed during a July 2024 bombing incident, wherein improvised explosives were used.
Aside from enforcement, the CPBD team also conducted information campaigns and community dialogues against illegal, unreported or unregulated fishing. (Photo courtesy of BFAR-Region 6)
