Politics · Philippines Bureau
Fishers' group seeks CHR probe into alleged Manila Bay harassment
A major fishing organization has lodged a complaint with the Commission on Human Rights alleging that its members faced intimidation in Manila Bay by individuals claiming to represent a presidential peace office. The accused agency has denied involvement.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya), a national federation of fishing communities, filed a formal request with the Commission on Human Rights to investigate allegations that its members were harassed and intimidated in Manila Bay.
The fishers' group claims the incidents involved individuals who identified themselves as personnel of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU). According to Pamalakaya, the alleged harassment targeted members engaged in their regular fishing activities.
OPAPRU has denied any involvement in the incidents, stating that its personnel were not responsible for the reported confrontations. The agency's denial comes as the CHR prepares to examine the allegations.
The complaint underscores ongoing tensions between fishing communities and government operations in Manila Bay, a critical fishing ground for thousands of Filipinos. The CHR investigation is expected to determine the identity of those involved and assess whether any rights violations occurred.
The case adds to concerns about the safety and protection of fisherfolk operating in disputed or regulated waters around the Philippine archipelago.