Lapu-Lapu City Launches Probe into Dynamite Fishing Allegations in Tourism Zone
Local authorities in Lapu-Lapu City have initiated a formal investigation into reports of alleged dynamite fishing along the shores of Barangay Punta Engaño. The inquiry commenced after a concerned citizen provided photographs to SunStar Cebu, depicting suspected illegal activity near a private resort on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The images have sparked urgent calls for action to safeguard the coastal environment.
Protecting a Vital Tourism Destination
Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan has directed officials to take immediate measures to protect the community, emphasizing that Barangay Punta Engaño is a renowned tourism area with numerous hotels. Preserving the safety and integrity of its waters is deemed critical for the local economy and ecosystem. Following the mayor's directive, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) coordinated with Punta Engaño Barangay Captain Crisanto Estardo on Wednesday, March 4.
Captain Estardo confirmed that enhanced monitoring protocols will be implemented to prevent similar illegal activities in the future. He stressed the importance of maintaining the area's reputation as a safe and attractive destination for visitors.
Searching for Concrete Evidence
The preliminary investigation has identified fishermen from Sitios Mangal and Solas as potential suspects. Authorities are also tracing a sea vessel visible in the citizen's photograph to aid in identifying those involved. However, Estardo cautioned that any legal action will depend on obtaining solid proof, such as documents or other corroborating evidence, to ensure the correct individuals are held accountable.
Cenro officer-in-charge Jocelyn Abayan reported that the barangay had no prior records of dynamite fishing sightings or related complaints. Cenro personnel visited Sitio Mangal to search for additional evidence but found no dead fish or visibly affected marine life. Abayan noted that the investigation is ongoing to determine whether the incident depicted in the photo occurred recently or at an earlier time.
In response to the circulating photos, the barangay recently convened a meeting with fishermen who had previously been listed for engaging in dynamite fishing, reinforcing the community's commitment to environmental stewardship.
The Daunting Challenge of Coastal Surveillance
Protecting the sea from dynamite fishing presents a formidable task due to logistical constraints. Lt. Col. Randy Monsanto Naval, assistant regional chief of the Maritime Regional Unit 7, has instructed the Cebu Maritime Police Station chief to verify the report and conduct a follow-up investigation. Naval explained that constant monitoring of coastal waters remains a significant challenge because of the region's extensive coastal areas.
He highlighted that the maritime police operate with limited manpower and floating assets, and authorities may have been focused on monitoring waters off Olango Island at the time of the reported incident. To bolster environmental protection efforts, Naval urged the public to report similar incidents promptly to authorities, enabling swift action and preventing larger ecological problems.
Residents and visitors who observe illegal activities are encouraged to report their concerns directly to local police or barangay officials, fostering a collaborative approach to marine conservation.
