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PCG sees increased presence of Filipino fishermen on Pag-asa Island


The Philippine Coast Guard on Thursday said that more Filipino fishermen are going to Pag-asa Island in the West Philippines Sea (WPS).

In a statement, PCG said it monitored around 25 Filipino fishing boats conducting fishing activities on the island’s vicinity waters during the deployment of the largest Coast Guard contingent in the WPS from May 12 to 14.

PCG Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu said he has tasked Coast Guard personnel to check the fishermen’s condition and provide relief supplies and COVID-19 kits to support their fishing operations.

“The significant increase of Filipino fishermen in the WPS proves that the PCG’s intensified presence boosts their confidence and makes them feel safe and protected while fishing in these areas' waters,” Abu said.

“Through our continuous modernization, we ensure that our kababayans can freely explore our marine resources while protecting our marine environment for the future generations,” he added.

The PCG has successfully placed five buoys in the WPS last week to guide ships and fishermen navigating the country’s exclusive economic zone.

One marker was placed each near Lawak Island, Likas Island, and Parola Island, while two buoys were placed near Pag-asa Island.

So far this year, the PCG reported there were at least four close distance maneuvering incident involving China Coast Guard vessel during a maritime patrol operation.

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon said that the Philippines has filed with China a diplomatic protest over the close distance maneuvering incident involving a CCG vessel in waters off Panatag Shoal.

Esperon underscored the need to encourage Filipino fishermen to continue their fishing ventures in the WPS.

He also noted government efforts to constructing a fuel depot and ice storage plant on Pag-asa Island to assist Filipino fishermen in the area.

Transportation Secretary Art Tugade directed the PCG to guarantee that Filipino fishermen enjoy the rich marine resources and will be able to return safely to their families.—LDF, GMA News

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