Giant clams recovered in Barangay Poblacion, Stam Fe, Bantayan Island. (Contributed by CLEAR-7).
THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR-7) recovered 10 giant clams in barangay Poblacion, Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island Wednesday afternoon.
Regional BFAR Director Andres Bojos said the giant clams were recovered from fisherfolk who bought the clams from other fishers for P500. The empty giant clams are commonly used as decorative materials.
Bojos said giant clams are considered as prohibited species. He said those who bought the clams are spared from charges and penalties.
“Nagpalit ra man siya dili siya ang gakuha (They only bought them and didn’t get them). There’s a lack of information and education campaign in this matter,” Bojos said.
The giant clams were returned to the sea Wednesday afternoon.