Philippine vessels drive away China militia boat, say fishers

A Chinese militia vessel was reportedly driven away by ships of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard in waters off Pag-Asa Island.

According to Chino Gaston's report on "24 Oras", the sight of the Chinese boat leaving was a cause for cheer among Filipino fishers who saw it.

"Oo, nilapitan nila. Inikut-ikutan ng barko natin," fisherman Larry Hugo told GMA Integrated News.

"Sumirit na lang ang barko kasi dalawa ang barko natin... Masaya na rin mga mangingisda rito. Pinapakita ng ating operatiba na nagbabantay sila," he added.

The Chinese militia vessel reportedly went near Hugo's group on Tuesday. The fishers continued to fish in the waters off Pag-Asa despite the Chinese' alleged approach.

The Navy and Coast Guard vessels, however, managed to drive away the Chinese.

The Philippine Coast Guard is confirming what transpired on Tuesday. —Richa Noriega/NB, GMA Integrated News