Section 123Sec./Art. 123

Concealing, Tampering or Disposing of Evidence Relating to an Investigation of a Violation. It shall be unlawful for any person to conceal, tamper or dispose evidence relating to an investigation of a violation.

Upon a summary finding of administratively liability, the offender shall be punished with suspension or cancellation of license and an administrative fine of:

(1) Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00) for municipal fishing or community service in case of failure to pay the fine;

(2) One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) for small-scale commercial fishing;

(3) One million pesos (P1,000,000.00) for medium-scale commercial fishing; and

(4) Five million pesos (P5,000,000.00) for large-scale commercial fishing.

In case of violation by distant water fishing vessels, the administrative fine shall be twice the amount indicated above.

Upon conviction by a court of law, the offender shall be imposed the penalty of imprisonment from five (5) years to ten (10) years and fine equivalent to twice the administrative fine, and suspension or cancellation of the license.