Definitions under the Act
- Section 2 defines “electro-fishing” as a method of catching fish that uses electricity generated by dry cell storage batteries, electric generators or other sources of electric power.
- Section 2 provides that electro-fishing is used to stupefy, disable or kill fish and other aquatic animals.
- Section 2 defines “person” to include natural and artificial persons.
Authorized exceptions for special purposes
- Section 1 permits electro-fishing only when it is for research, educational and scientific purposes.
- Section 1 requires authorization from the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources for those permitted activities.
Penalties and confiscation consequences
- Section 3 imposes imprisonment ranging from six Months to one year for a violation of Section 1.
- Section 3 imposes a fine of five hundred to one thousand pesos for a violation of Section 1.
- Section 3 requires that, in addition to imprisonment and fine, all the apparatus and paraphernalia including the boat used in electro-fishing be confiscated and forfeited in favor of the Government.
- Section 3 makes a responsible corporate actor liable: for juridical persons, the partner, president, director or manager who consents to or knowingly tolerates the violation is held liable as a co-principal.
Effectivity and date
- The Act was approved on June 17, 1972.
- Section 4 provides that the Act takes effect upon its approval.