In support of the “Bagong Pilipinas” vision for food security and national development, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) deployed four vessels—BRP Datu Tamblot, BRP Datu Taradapit, BRP Datu Bankaya, and BRP Datu Daya—along with personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to Panatag Shoal this morning. The mission aimed to protect the rights and safety of Filipino fishermen in the area.
Upon arrival, BFAR distributed fuel subsidies to over 20 local fishing boats, highlighting the national government’s commitment to the Filipino fishing community. However, at approximately 10:00 AM, BRP Datu Taradapit faced aggressive maneuvers from the Chinese Coast Guard vessel CCG-4203, which approached within 600 yards and fired a water cannon from 15.6 nautical miles southwest of Panatag Shoal. Despite these aggressive actions, including blocking maneuvers and a water cannon attack that briefly struck the port quarter of BRP Datu Taradapit, the vessel adeptly maneuvered away to avoid significant damage. At 10:30 AM, CCG-3105 targeted BRP Datu Tamblot with a water cannon from a distance of 18.1 nautical miles southeast of the shoal, but the attack missed its mark.
Throughout the operation, six China Coast Guard vessels, two PLA Navy warships, and multiple Chinese maritime militia vessels were monitored, all of which aimed to obstruct BFAR’s efforts to provide support and subsidies to Filipino fishermen.
It is crucial to emphasize that the operations conducted by BFAR vessels are within the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Philippines. Filipino fishermen have sovereign rights to exploit resources in these waters, particularly for fishing. The presence of BFAR and PCG vessels is fully aligned with the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
Despite the unprofessional and illegal actions of the Chinese Coast Guard, which endangered Filipino crew members and fishermen, BFAR vessels remained resolute in their mission to protect local fishing boats. The BFAR and PCG reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding the rights and livelihoods of Filipino fishermen and will continue legitimate operations in Panatag Shoal.
