Capitol distances from Madrigal’s anti-illegal fishing operations

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III has disowned any anti-illegal fishing operations conducted by former Capitol chief security officer Loy Anthony Madrigal.

Davide made it clear that Madrigal is no longer connected with the provincial anti-illegal fishing task force. Madrigal resigned from the Capitol after his alleged illicit affair with his married secretary was made public.

But Madrigal has resumed his anti-illegal fishing operations this week apprehending two fishing vessels loaded with active gears in Daanbantayan. Madrigal is reportedly working for Bantay Dagat of Santa Fe town.

Davide said he was informed by retired navy captain Romeo Tapayan, who now heads the Cebu Provincial Anti-Illegal Fishing Task Force, about Madrigal’s operation.

“(But) Everything he does is not connected with the provincial government. Mr. Madrigal is no longer an employee of the province. He’s doing it maybe because of his advocacy or as a volunteer or concern citizen,” Davide told reporters.

Madrigal said over the phone that he responded to the request of the municipality of Daanbantayan without hesitation since he also learned that rampant illegal fishing has returned.

When asked if he is officially part of the Bantay Dagat of Santa Fe, he said it would be better to ask the town mayor.

The FREEMAN tried to contact Santa Fe Mayor Jose Esgana to confirm the employment status of Madrigal, but the calls went unanswered.— (FREEMAN)