Section 27Sec./Art. 27

Poaching by Foreigners. - It shall be unlawful for any foreign person, foreign corporation or foreign entity to fish, gather and/or purchase or possess any fishery products within the TRNP. It shall likewise be unlawful for any person, corporation or entity to operate any foreign fishing vessel within the TRNP. The entry of any foreign fishing vessel in the TRNP shall constitute prima facie evidence that the vessel is engaged in fishing in the area. The presence of any foreign national in a fishing vessel of either Philippine or foreign registry in the TRNP shall be conclusive evidence that the vessel is foreign.

Violation of the above shall be punished by imprisonment of six (6) years and one (1) day to twelve (12) years and a fine of One hundred thousand U.S. dollars {US$100,000.00), in addition to the forfeiture of its catch, fishing equipment and fishing vessel: Provided, That in case of non-payment of fine, subsidiary imprisonment shall be imposed: Provided, farther, That the TPAMB is empowered to impose an administrative fine of not less than Fifty thousand U.S. dollars (US$50,000.00), but not more than Two hundred thousand U.S. dollar (US$200,000.00) or its equivalent in Philippine currency, in addition to the confiscation and forfeiture of the fish catch, fishing equipment and fishing vessel: Provided, finally, That a bond may be posted for the vessels which shall not be less than One hundred thousand U.S. dollars (US$100,000.00).

A Hold Departure Order shall be issued as a condition for the grant of bail to any foreign offender. All passports and documents which may be used by the accused to flee the country must be surrendered to the court.