In response to recent aggressive maneuvers by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) conducted a maritime domain awareness (MDA) flight over the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea this morning. The MDA flight was executed using two BFAR aircraft, departing from Puerto Princesa.
The mission aimed to assert the Philippines’ sovereignty, sovereign rights, and maritime jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea. During the operation, the aircraft observed and documented the following sightings:
Rozul Reef-Detected six Chinese Maritime Militia vessels illegally present.
Pagasa Island-Noted the presence of a China Coast Guard vessel with bow number 5101 and over fifty Chinese Maritime Militia vessels.
Throughout the flight, the BFAR aircraft consistently challenged the illegal presence of Chinese maritime forces encountered. This mission also documented the unlawful activities conducted by the Chinese Coast Guard and Maritime Militia in the Kalayaan Island Group.
Undeterred by provocations from the People’s Republic of China, BFAR and PCG remain resolute in maintaining our presence in the West Philippine Sea and confronting the illegal activities of foreign vessels. BFAR and PCG reaffirm our unwavering commitment to upholding the Philippines’ sovereignty and ensuring the safety and security of the nation’s maritime domain, despite the unprofessional and dangerous behavior exhibited by Chinese maritime forces.
https://x.com/jaytaryela/status/1892522620274590118
