The PCG received a complaint on January 20, 2023, regarding an event that occurred on January 09, 2023, from Mr. Lito Al-os, the captain of the Filipino fishing vessel KEN-KEN. His report claimed that when they were fishing in the waters of Ayungin Shoal, a Chinese Coast Guard vessel 5204, allegedly forced them away.
He continued, saying that from a distance of roughly 800 yards, the CCGV 5204 closed in on their fishing vessel and launched a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB). Personnel on the RHIB asked the Filipino fishermen to leave the area. As a result, the fishing boat KEN-KEN altered its course and fled Ayungin Shoal; however, the Chinese vessel pursued them as they made their way to Boxall Reef.
Because of this incident, the PCG conducted an investigation, and the organization’s Task Force Pag-asa quickly sent additional vessels to the area to strengthen their presence and ensure the safety of Filipino fishermen who rely on these waters for their livelihood.
The PCG gathered more evidence and information, which it shared with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Based on this shared information, the DFA considered whether diplomatic action was necessary.
As per the directive of Department of Transportation(DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista, Coast Guard Commandant CG Admiral Artemio M Abu, assured the Filipino fishermen that the PCG remains committed to upholding a rules-based approach to protecting the country’s rights in its exclusive economic zones.
This situation featured the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea and the problems experienced by the local Filipino fishermen. The PCG organization also showed their best effort not to back down, to provide security, and to assert the Philippines’ rights in these contested waters.