The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), has been actively deployed in Bajo de Masinloc and Escoda Shoal since yesterday. The primary objective is to ensure the safety and security of Filipino fishermen in these areas while distributing fuel, ice, and food packs to extend their fishing operations as part of the Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda (KBBM) Program.
Yesterday morning, the PCG monitored a group of fishermen being harassed and prevented from fishing near Bajo de Masinloc by Chinese Maritime Militia vessels and Chinese Coast Guard vessels 3103 and 3303. In response, the PCG vessel BRP Cabra, along with ten (10) BFAR vessels, were immediately dispatched to rendezvous with more than 30 Filipino fishing vessels. Upon arrival, the Filipino fishing boats received fuel subsidies and expressed gratitude to the national government for the support. Notably, the fishermen also reported an unidentified drone flying overhead, seemingly documenting their activities. Additionally, both the PCG and BFAR confirmed that Starlink connections are disconnected upon entering within 12 nautical miles of Bajo de Masinloc.
In Escoda Shoal, Filipino fishing boats contacted the PCG vessel to report harassment by Chinese Maritime Militia and Chinese Coast Guard vessels 4203 and 5303, which prevented them from continuing their fishing activities. The PCG vessel BRP Cape Engaño proceeded to their location to provide security. As of this update, the PCG vessel remains in the vicinity to ensure the Filipino fishing boats are not harassed and are safely protected.
PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan reiterated his commitment that the primary priority of PCG vessels deployed in these areas is to promote peace, stability and rule of law, while fulfilling the goverment’s responsibility to safeguard Filipino fishermen. This is in furtherance of the standing guidance of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., to assert the nation’s rights firmly without provocation, while prioritizing the protection of our fishermen.
