P4.2-M endangered giant clams seized in Iloilo town

ILOILO CITY - Authorities seized some PHP4.2 million worth of fossilized giant clam shells, locally known as 'taklobo,' from a buyer in Carles, Iloilo. Regional Maritime Unit 6 (RMU 6) chief Col. Ervin Glenn Provido, in an interview Monday, said the operation took place in Barangay Lantangan, Gigantes Island on Oct. 5 after police received information about a certain individual engaged in gathering of giant clam shells. The suspect identified as Evelyn Robles, 63, married, allegedly has long been in the business of collecting giant clam shells. 'The suspect bought the giant clams from the fisherfolk at PHP50 per kilo. She collected it until they accumulated up to one ton and sold them at PHP1.5 million per ton,' Provido said. Seized were 70 sacks of giant clam shells weighing about 2,800 kg. piled at the back of her variety store and visible in plain view from the road. She failed to present a permit or any document from local authorities allowing her to collect or possess the type of species. Provido said that based on the information they gathered, the suspect has a buyer from Palawan and there is a vessel that picks up the giant clams from Carles. The giant clam is listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES), he added. CITES is an international agreement among governments ensuring that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the survival of species, according to its website, cites.org. Provido also warned others who are into this illegal activity. 'The PNP Maritime Group will continue to enforce all maritime and environmental laws to preserve our marine resources and to protect our coastal communities,' he said. The suspect will be facing charges for violation of Section 102 of Republic 10654 or the Philippines Fisheries Code of 1998. Source: Philippines News Agency