THE government condemned yesterday the latest aggressions by the China Coast Guard (CCG) and People’s Liberation Army (PLA) while directing the country’s maritime forces to remain professional in sustaining operations in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The National Maritime Council, in a statement, said the Chinese’s aggressive actions against Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessels that were conducting legitimate maritime patrols and fisheries support operations near Bajo de Masinloc (Panatag Shoal) last June 20 violated international law, specifically the United Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Ruling.
NMC said China’s action also jeopardized the safety of Philippine personnel and local fishing communities as the CCG water cannoned the BFAR vessels, and hit the BRP Datu Matanam Taradapit (MMOV 3006) while it was delivering essential supplies to Filipino fisherfolk, followed by shadowing and unsafe maneuvers by Chinese militia vessels and PLA Navy ships within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone.
“BFAR vessels’ presence and operations in the area are lawful, routine, and focused on food security and public welfare. Despite provocations, BFAR vessels remained professional and completed their mission,” it added.
BFAR deployed four vessels—BRP Datu Taradapit, BRP Datu Tamblot, BRP Datu Bankaya, and BRP Datu Daya—along with personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to Panatag Shoal to protect the rights and safety of Filipino fishermen in the area. It also distributed fuel subsidies to over 20 local fishing boats.
NMC called on China to cease unlawful actions, act with restraint, and adhere to international law to maintain regional peace and stability.
“The Philippines reaffirms its commitment to defending sovereignty and supporting Filipino fishermen and will direct Philippine maritime forces to continue lawful operations with professionalism and determination,” it added.
China had been claiming almost the entire South China Sea, including areas that overlap with other countries, such as parts of the West Philippine Sea that are within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
