Special prosecutor’s office for protected area pushed

OCEANA Philippines is pushing for the creation of the Office of the Special Prosecutor for Protected Area to help in the litigation of cases related to illegal fishing in the country.

Lawyer Gloria Ramos, vice president for Oceana Philippines, said that they have already discussed the matter with the Department of Justice (DOJ).

OCEANA Philippines headed by Atty. Gloria Estenso-Ramos (right) meet with Cebu Vice governor Agnes Magpale (3rd from right), BFAR assistant regional director Allan L. Paquita (4th from left), Lawyer Chad Estella (2nd from right) of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources office (PENRO) to discuss initiatives to combat illegal fishing in Cebu province. The meeting was held in the Provincial Board members’ lounge in the Legislative building. (CDN PHOTO/JUNJIE MENDOZA)

Ramos said it was proposed years ago and it still needs the signature of the new DOJ Secretary Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa.

The National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act provides for the designation of special prosecutors by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to prosecute violations of applicable environmental laws and regulations in protected areas.

Proposed pilot testing area will be the Tañon Strait.

In the proposal, the office of the special prosecutor will collaborate with the Protected Area Office, the Park Superintendent (PASu) and other environmental law enforcers.

It will be involved in building up cases for enforcement with a more proactive role in assisting investigative bodies and law enforcers.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor will take part in enforcement and investigation to prosecution by providing advice and training for enforcers through environmental law enforcement seminars.