MAFAR Minister Dr. Mohammad S. Yacob (center left) and his officials attended the 3-day ‘Proper Gun Safety, Handling and Marksmanship Training’ for the Fishery Law Enforcement Officers held at 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division, in Brgy. Semba, Awang, Maguindanao last April 13-15, 2021.
COTABATO CITY—Fisheries sector of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) steps up its enforcement’s firsthand mechanism in governing the protection and conservation of the marine and aquatic resources along the Bangsamoro region’s territorial waters.
On April 13-15, the Fishery Law Enforcement (FLE) officers of the fisheries sector underwent a rigorous three-day ‘Proper Gun Safety, Handling and Marksmanship Training’ at the Division Training School (DTS) of 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division, in Brgy. Semba, Awang, Maguindanao.
Around 15 FLE officers participated in the event which was supported by the Philippine National Office Maritime group (PNP – MG) and the 6th ID Philippine Army.
Officers learned about techniques on self-defense using firearms to become effective and efficient surveillance enforcers in combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF) activities happening in Bangsamoro waters.
The training covered both lectures on gun safety rules, familiarization of the different types of firearms, written exams, and actual demonstration of test fires both in a short handgun and long firearms, among others.
MAFAR Minister Dr. Mohammad S. Yacob stressed the importance of holding training to instill ‘discipline’ among law enforcement officers as well as capacitating their role as protector of fisheries and aquatic resources.
“If our law enforcement officers are active, they can help reduce the incidents involving exploitation, unlawful fishing practices, and the occurrence of IUUF activities within our areas,” Yacob said.
He is also looking forward to more training with the support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and PNP-MG.
“The ministry will do its best to allocate funds for them [fisheries sector]. Our main objective is for our fisherfolks to have more ‘spirit’ to do their job and provide further relevant training to help and address the needs of the fishers,” Yacob added.
Meanwhile, LTC Clairemont W. Pinpin INF (GSC) PA, Commandant from 6DTS, told that it is essential for the participants to undergo constant and regular training to advance their proficiency.
“It is important to make an assessment report regarding their performance progress because the training involves safety precautions, elements of recklessness and emotional control, considerations and practicality on various circumstances,” Pinpin explained.
The three-day training culminated through a graduation ceremony and awarding of certificates to the enforcer participants.
Also present at the event were Director II of Fisheries Dr. Macmod D. Mamalangkap, Agricultural Services Director II Engr. Ismail Guiamel, MAFAR Admin and Finance Services Director II Julie O. Maliga, RN, 6th Division Training School (DTS) Assistant Commandant Maj Edward M. Meim (INF) PA, and Training Officer CPT Jose C. Lagadon (INF) PA. (Bangsamoro Information Office)
