PH deploys vessels to protect fishermen amid reported Chinese harassment in Bajo de Masinloc

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) deployed multiple vessels to Bajo de Masinloc following reports of continued harassment by Chinese vessels against Filipino fishermen, authorities said. In a statement issued Tuesday, the PCG said two of its vessels and five BFAR fishery patrol ships were dispatched after more than 20 Filipino fishing boats encountered harassment from China Coast Guard units over the weekend. The joint deployment secured the fishing grounds and ensured the safety of Filipino fishermen operating in the area. Government personnel also distributed fuel subsidies, food packs, and ice to help sustain fishing operations and mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs. PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan ordered an aerial maritime domain awareness flight over the shoal to monitor the situation. The operation documented the presence of six China Coast Guard vessels, 20 China Maritime Militia ships, and one warship from the People’s Liberation Army Navy. During the patrol, the PCG recorded what it described as a first-of-its-kind incident: a China Coast Guard vessel broadcasting over radio its intent to conduct a “clearing operation” within a defined area. The coordinates covered waters between 14°14'N to 15°05'N latitude and 118°10'E to 118°25'E longitude. The PCG said the deployment formed part of ongoing efforts to safeguard Philippine sovereignty and protect the livelihood of local fishermen in the West Philippine Sea. The agency also reiterated its commitment to enforcing international law and supporting the policy direction of the Philippine government. in asserting the country’s sovereign rights and maritime jurisdiction in contested waters.

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