Satellite image shows fewer vessels in Recto Bank

Fewer fishing vessels were spotted in Recto Bank a few days after a Chinese vessel hit a Filipino fishing boat in the area, the observation is based on data received by GMA News from a satellite facility.

According to a report by Chino Gaston in GMA News TV's State of the Nation with Jessica Soho on Tuesday, a satellite image captured on Monday showed a decrease in the number of fishing vessels present in Recto Bank or Reed Bank.

From over 20 vessels seen in the area on June 9, 2019, the number was reduced to just six.

Other fishing boats may have returned to their respective ports to sell their catch, according to a source of GMA News.

It is also possible that some vessels were not detected because they turned their lights off due to inclement weather.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said it is conducting a maritime casualty investigation regarding the incident.

The probe focuses on the personal accounts of the fishermen, on how their boat was hit by the foreign vessel.

The PCG said it would also be better if it can get a report from the Chinese government so that the two sides of the incident may be assessed.

Further, it added that based on guidelines set by the International Maritime Organization, the Filipino fishermen may demand compensation for damages should it be established that the Chinese are at fault in the Recto Bank incident. — Dona Magsino/BAP, GMA News