Deployment of law enforcement officers from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources: Basis for improvement of enforcement mechanism

This study aims to assess the deployment of law enforcement officers from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and the results serve as a basis for improving enforcement mechanisms. It specifically focuses on evaluating the enforcement mechanisms, personnel deployment, floating assets, training, and the overall capability of BFAR officers in CALABARZON. Additionally, the study examines the relationship between these operational factors and key regulatory aspects, including the prevalence of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, case filings, fishing activity levels, marine ecosystem health, and economic losses. A descriptive research design utilizing correlational analysis was employed to evaluate the various components of BFARs enforcement operations. Data were collected through quantitative surveys administered to 18 fishery law enforcers and 47 local government unit (LGU) officials involved in fishery law enforcement within the CALABARZON Region. The survey responses provided valuable insights into the operational challenges and strengths of BFARs enforcement strategy.The findings reveal that the training and capabilities of enforcement officers are rated highly, suggesting that these areas are well-established. However, concerns were raised regarding inadequate personnel and floating assets, which limit the overall enforcement capacity. The study found strong positive correlations between enforcement mechanisms, the number of enforcers, and floating assets with reduced IUU fishing, increased case filings, and improved marine ecosystem health. Training was also found to correlate significantly with case filings and economic losses, while perceived capability did not significantly correlate with regulatory outcomes.In conclusion, the study emphasizes that while certain aspects of BFARs enforcement operations are effective, significant improvements are needed in increasing personnel and resources, particularly floating assets. The lack of sufficient resources constrains the agencys ability to enforce fisheries regulations effectively. The study highlights the importance of strengthening inter-agency collaboration to enhance the overall enforcement mechanism.Based on these findings, the study recommends increasing the number of deployed personnel, upgrading floating assets, and further enhancing inter-agency collaboration to improve enforcement outcomes. Additionally, periodic evaluations and updates to the training programs are suggested to ensure that enforcement officers remain prepared to adapt to the evolving challenges in fisheries management.