Title
Illegal Fishing Penalties PD 534
Law
Presidential Decree No. 534
Decision Date
Aug 8, 1974
Presidential Decree No. 534 defines illegal fishing in the Philippines and imposes stricter penalties to protect the country's fishing grounds and fishery resources, aiming to deter individuals from engaging in illegal fishing activities and addressing the entire supply chain of illegal fishing.

Law Summary

Prohibition

  • It is unlawful to catch or gather fish using explosives, poisonous substances, or electricity within Philippine waters.
  • Exceptions exist for research, education, or scientific purposes subject to safeguards and permission by the Secretary of Natural Resources.

Penalties

  • Use of explosives: Imprisonment of 10 to 12 years; if physical injury results, penalty increases to 12 to 20 years; if loss of life results, penalty is 20 years to life or death.
  • Use of poisonous substances: Imprisonment of 8 to 10 years; increased penalties if injury or death occurs (10-12 years or 20 years to life/death).
  • Violations of related rules and regulations: Imprisonment from 6 months to 4 years, or fine from P500 to P5,000.
  • Corporate liability: Responsible corporate officers are liable along with the person who commits the prohibited acts.

Dealing in Illegally Caught Fish

  • Possessing, selling, or dealing with illegally caught fish or fishery products knowingly and for profit is punishable by imprisonment ranging from 2 to 6 years.

Repealing Clause

  • Any laws, decrees, orders, or regulations inconsistent with this decree, including Act No. 4003 and Republic Act No. 6451, are repealed or modified as necessary.

Effectivity

  • The decree took effect immediately upon promulgation on August 8, 1974.

Analyze Cases Smarter, Faster
Jur helps you analyze cases smarter to comprehend faster—building context before diving into full texts.