THE protection and conservation of Tuburan town’s abundant and diverse marine resources takes center stage as town officials declare another area as a marine and fish sanctuary.
Tuburan, known for its crystal-clear beaches, springs and other natural wonders now has four marine protected areas, the most recently declared marine sanctuary is in Barangay Sto. Niño, around four kilometers from the town hall, and the three others are located in Barangays Antipolo, Bagasawe and Apalan.
Its municipal waters are part of Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (TSPS), the largest marine protected area in the country.
“The establishment of marine reserves is a way to combat the presence of illegal fishing in the town,” Tuburan Mayor Democrito Diamante said.
In December last year, the municipal council enacted an ordinance declaring a 5.47-hectare area in Barangay Sto. Niño as a marine reserve and fish sanctuary. The ordinance was referred to the Cebu Provincial Board last Monday.
The ordinance prohibits fishing, diving, bathing, harvesting fish fry, eggs or seagrass.
Violators will be fined P500 for the first offense; P1,500 to P5,000 for the second offense; and P5,500 to P20,000 or imprisonment of six months to two years for the third offense.
They will also be meted an administrative fine of not more than P2,000 and their fishing boats and fishing paraphernalia will be confiscated.