PCG, BFAR extend aid to over 100 fishermen amid harassment by Chinese ships

MANILA, October 15 ------ The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), successfully completed another Kalayaan, Bagong Bayanihan, Bagong Mangingisda (KBBM) operation, providing essential aid and fuel subsidies to Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea.

This despite continued harassment from Chinese vessels, according to PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Jay Tarriela. Tarriela said the joint operation benefited more than 100 Filipino fishing boats across two key areas—Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) and Escoda Shoal. “We were able to successfully provide fuel subsidy, grocery packs, fresh water, at ‘yung mga yelo para sa ating mga mangingisda. Tinatayang more than 100 Filipino fishing boats ang nakinabang dito sa operation na ito ng Philippine Coast Guard at ng Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources,” he said.

The PCG deployed BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP San Agustin, along with six BFAR vessels, to Bajo de Masinloc, while BRP Melchora Aquino, BRP Cabra, and five more BFAR patrol boats were sent to Escoda Shoal to support around 40 Filipino fishing boats. However, Tarriela said that the mission was not without challenges, as Chinese vessels continued their aggressive actions. “Ang KBBM initiative natin is not a walk in the park. We were still subjected to dangerous maneuvers by the China Coast Guard and even the Chinese maritime militia. In Escoda, they even deployed high-speed response boats to harass our fishermen,” he said.

Tarriela praised the courage and seamanship of PCG and BFAR personnel who delivered supplies and assistance to Filipino fishermen. The PCG also clarified that the KBBM program is not a one-way effort. The initiative doubles as a “Kadiwa at Sea” program, where the government buys fresh catch directly from fishermen to help stabilize fish prices and strengthen local livelihood. “If the government buys directly from them in the middle of the sea, we can help stabilize prices and ensure better market supply,” Tarriela said.

Meanwhile, the PCG also reported a new kind of radio challenge from the China Coast Guard during their operation in Bajo de Masinloc. For the first time, Chinese authorities claimed the area as part of a “natural reserve,” allegedly restricting Filipino fishermen’s access. Tarriela noted that BRP Teresa Magbanua immediately responded, reiterating the Philippines’ sovereign rights and rejecting China’s claim. “We reminded them that the Philippines does not recognize their so-called natural reserve. It’s ironic for them to claim environmental protection when for years, Chinese fishermen have been destroying marine habitats and harvesting endangered species,” he added.

The PCG reaffirmed its commitment to continue KBBM operations to protect Filipino fishermen’s rights and sustain their livelihood amid ongoing challenges in the West Philippine Sea.

Source: news.abs-cbn.com