Ang Pahayagan

ZAMBALES — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in coordination with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), has deployed multiple vessels to Bajo de Masinloc following reports of continued harassment by Chinese Coast Guard ships against Filipino fishermen.

PCG Commodore Jay Tarriella, Spokesperson on West Philippine Sea Concerns said the joint operation was launched in response to an incident last weekend involving more than 20 Filipino fishing boats operating in the area. To ensure their safety and security, the PCG dispatched two vessels while BFAR deployed five fishery patrol vessels.

Beyond security presence, the PCG-BFAR team also provided essential assistance to affected fishermen, including fuel subsidies, food packs, and ice supplies. These efforts aim to help sustain fishing operations and mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs.

PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, further directed the deployment of the PCG Caravan to conduct a Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) flight over Bajo de Masinloc. The aerial patrol documented the presence of six China Coast Guard vessels, 20 China Maritime Militia vessels, and one People’s Liberation Army Navy warship in the vicinity.

In a significant development, the PCG recorded, for the first time, a China Coast Guard vessel issuing a live radio broadcast declaring its intention to conduct a clearing operation within the following coordinates:

• Point A: 15°05’N, 118°10’E
• Point B: 15°05’N, 118°25’E
• Point C: 14°14’N, 118°25’E
• Point D: 14°14’N, 118°10’E

The PCG reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to support the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in defending the country’s sovereignty, sovereign rights, and maritime jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea.

Aligned with the President’s directive, the PCG will continue to uphold international law while ensuring the protection, safety, and livelihood of Filipino fishermen against external threats and harassment.

📸 Screen grab from PCG video