Bacolod City to Probe Alleged Shooting of Fisherman by Iloilo Bantay Dagat Personnel

The Bacolod City Government has announced plans to investigate an alleged shooting incident involving a Bacolod fisherman and Bantay Dagat personnel from Iloilo. The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, August 2, 2025, near the coastal border separating Bacolod and Guimaras.

Councilor Jude Thaddeus Sayson, who chairs the City Council committee on agriculture and fisheries, confirmed that the council is in the process of collecting information to thoroughly examine the case. He revealed that the fisherman, a resident of Barangay 2 in Bacolod, was allegedly shot by Bantay Dagat officers stationed in Iloilo City.

"The fisherman was immediately taken to a hospital and is currently in stable condition," Sayson said. He emphasized that because the personnel involved are from another local government unit, coordination with Iloilo officials will be necessary.

Sayson further stated, "If it is confirmed that Bantay Dagat personnel were involved in this case, I will urge Mayor Greg Gasataya to engage with Iloilo City authorities to ensure that such incidents do not occur again in the future." He acknowledged that the fisherman committed a violation linked to illegal fishing, but expressed concern that the response involved the use of firearms instead of an arrest.

The councilor plans to file a formal resolution regarding the matter on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. He also reminded local fishermen to operate strictly within Bacolod's designated coastal waters to prevent similar conflicts.

This investigation underscores the need for clear jurisdiction and proper conduct among marine enforcement agencies in the Western Visayas region.