1 week ago
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BACOLOD CITY — Mayor Marvin Malacon of EB Magalona, Negros Occidental, has appealed to candidates in the May 12 national and local elections not to use the Supreme Court's decision that allowed commercial fishing in municipal waters as a poll issue.
Malacon, on a Facebook post on Tuesday, said spreading fake news will not help those in the coastal areas.
"If you won't help our affected townmates, don't spread misinformation and fake news," the mayor appealed.
He added that his office is ready to listen and help those affected residents.
Malacon said that it is the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) that has the "obligation" to inform the affected LGUs.
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"If the LGU knew there was a case, it would be the municipal government who would oppose it," he pointed out.
Malacon assured affected residents, especially those in the coastal areas, that the municipal government will do everything to push a reversal of the Supreme Court ruling.
Earlier, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Occidental called on national government agencies to take immediate action against the high court's ruling.
In a resolution dated Feb. 25, the board members said there is a need for urgent action to safeguard the rights of municipal fishers, as well as to protect fisheries and marine resources.
