Tightening control, accompanying fishermen
In response to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, the Man Quang Border Guard Station has implemented strict control measures.
Every fishing vessel leaving or entering the station must sign a commitment not to violate IUU regulations and comply with safety, fire prevention, and crew insurance requirements. Any vessel that fails to report its departure is fined and must return to Tho Quang fishing port to complete the necessary procedures.
In addition to inspections, the station also enforces penalties for vessels that fail to maintain mandatory tracking devices, which helps reduce violations and improve legal awareness among fishermen. This effort contributes to Vietnam’s goal of lifting the European Commission’s “yellow card” warning on IUU fishing.
The station also prioritises legal education for fishermen. Officers regularly meet with locals to explain Vietnam’s maritime laws and safe fishing regulations, ensuring they do not encroach on foreign waters.
Nguyen Van Tien, captain of fishing vessel DN90758TS, shared: “The officers at Man Quang Border Guard Station are very responsible and approachable. In addition to checking and reminding boat owners to follow regulations before departure, they also provide practical guidance to ensure safety at sea. They distribute flyers, provide checklists of necessary documents, and update us with new information for each fishing trip.”
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Fishing boats undergo pre-departure checks to ensure safe operations. |
During the storm season, the station plays a vital role in disaster prevention. Officers go from boat to boat, house to house, helping fishermen secure their vessels and homes while evacuating people and property to safe locations. They also act as a communication bridge, relaying information between offshore fishermen and their families, ensuring timely responses to weather changes.
“At the end of 2023, two fishing boats from Quang Ngai caught fire at Tho Quang fishing port late at night. Man Quang Border Guard officers were among the first responders, evacuating crew members to safety and using firefighting equipment to contain the flames before the fire department arrived, preventing the fire from spreading,” recalled Captain Tran Van Tiep, head of the station’s vessel management team.
Contributing to Vietnam’s Marine Economy Strategy
As the gateway to Tho Quang fishing port, which sees hundreds of fishing boats from Da Nang, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Binh Dinh, Phu Yen, and Khanh Hoa arriving daily, the Man Quang Border Guard Station faces immense management pressure.
Captain Vo Xuan Chi, head of the station, explained: “On average, dozens to over a hundred vessels depart daily. Monitoring boats, people, and cargo requires absolute vigilance. Our officers must always be on duty and proficient in using equipment to carry out their responsibilities.”
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Every day, numerous vessels enter and exit Tho Quang fishing port and anchorage area. |
The station operates 24/7 with the Tho Quang Fishing Port Management Board and Da Nang Fisheries Sub-Department to conduct joint patrols, ensuring smooth and legal fishing activities.
“One challenge is that many fishermen have limited education, some even illiterate, making outreach difficult. Our officers must take a hands-on approach, directly engaging with fishermen to educate and support them,” Captain Vo Xuan Chi noted.
Beyond maritime security, the station actively supports fishermen in sustainable economic development. By enforcing strict but flexible policies, combined with legal education and guidance, they help fishermen feel secure at sea while complying with fishing regulations.
“We leverage technology to assist fishermen in locating fishing grounds, navigation, and disaster preparedness. We also distribute educational materials, checklists, and record books for easy use and storage, especially in harsh marine conditions,” added Captain Chi.
Through its effective management, the station strengthens maritime security, contributing to Vietnam’s Resolution No. 26-NQ/TW on economic and security development in the North Central and Central Coastal regions through 2030, with a vision to 2045.
With their dedication and responsibility, the officers of Man Quang Border Guard Station serve as a strong shield protecting Da Nang’s waters and a trusted support for fishermen, promoting marine economic growth while safeguarding the nation’s maritime sovereignty.
