DAVAO CITY – The tandem of presidential and vice presidential aspirants, Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano vowed to launch a crackdown on illegal fishing and to push the development of a Mindanao railway system.
During their visit in General Santos City on Saturday, Duterte said they will enforce a crackdown on illegal fishers to “keep the industry vibrant.”
“We must protect our maritime resources,” said Duterte.
“I will enforce a crackdown on illegal fishers, unregulated and unreported fishing, especially from foreign vessels. Those who will be caught will be penalized severely. They will wriggle like fish caught on dry land,” he said.
Senator Cayetano said they will also ensure “safe working conditions and fixed wages for handline fishermen.”
“Under a Duterte-Cayetano government, our fishermen, who provide food on our tables, will be paid twice the daily minimum wage in the region and recieve hazard pay. This is on top of the commissions which they will get from their catch,” Cayetano added.
Duterte also reiterated his pledge to wage a war against crime and corruption, especially on illegal drugs. He even urged the public to kill him if he cannot resolve heinous crimes and illegal drugs within the first six months of his administration if elected president.
“If I succeed perhaps that would be my greatest contribution to the country, but if I fail, kill me,” Duterte said. (davaotoday.com)
