PCG completes resupply mission to Pinoy fishers in WPS despite Chinese intimidation

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) successfully completed their joint resupply mission to Filipino fishermen in the highly contested West Philippine Sea last October 7 despite intimidation from Chinese forces.

Four PCG multi-role vessels were deployed to two locations: the BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Cape San Agustin were sent to Bajo de Masinloc while the BRP Melchora Aquino and the BRP Cabra were present at Escoda Shoal.

“Operations began at 5 a.m., with PCG personnel engaging over 45 fishing boats at both locations. The joint teams provided critical support, including fuel subsidies, five tons of crushed ice, and 345 grocery packs to nearly 100 vessels, enabling fishermen to extend their fishing expeditions,” the Coast Guard said in a statement. 

“In total, the joint operation disbursed 98,000 liters of fuel oil, bolstering the resilience of the local fishing sector. Complementing these efforts, the Department of Agriculture procured 35 tons of freshly caught fish from Bajo de Masinloc fishermen later that afternoon, ensuring that the fishermen could continue their work,” the PCG added. 

But during the operations, the Filipino ships delivering supplies encountered China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, according to the PCG. 

For instance, a PLAN vessel 568 issued warnings from a distance regarding a live-fire exercise in Bajo de Masinloc. Meanwhile, a PLAN helicopter conducted a low-altitude monitoring over Escoda Shoal. 

“The operation took place amidst an increased Chinese maritime presence, with 7 CCG vessels and 10 Chinese Maritime Militia in Bajo de Masinloc, and 8 CCG vessels accompanied by 9 Maritime Militia in Escoda Shoal. Yet, the PCG and BFAR teams remained steadfast, successfully achieving all mission objectives,” the PCG said. 

The Philippines refers to parts of the waters within its exclusive economic zone as the West Philippine Sea - or maritime areas on the western side of the Philippine archipelago including Luzon Sea and the waters around, within and adjacent to the Kalayaan Island Group and Bajo de Masinloc.

The 2016 arbitration ruling upheld the Philippines' exclusive economic zone over China's historical claims in the disputed South China Sea  under UNCLOS. Beijing has never recognized the decision. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News