Filipino fishermen are calling for the presence of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) while they fish in the Panatag Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, following threats from China to detain "foreign trespassers" in what is legally Philippine territory.
Joeffrey Elad, president of the Tropical Fish Gatherer Association, emphasized the
importance of PCG escort to prevent potential detentions by China, which has begun enforcing a "no trespassing" policy. This policy, starting June 15, allows the China Coast Guard to detain foreign trespassers in its claimed territories for up to 60 days without trial.
"If we do not return to the Bajo de Masinloc, that reef may be lost to us fisherfolk," Elad stated in a report by Jonathan Andal on 24 Oras Weekend. He expressed concerns about being detained and taken to China, which has led many fishermen to stay close to shore.
Despite the new policy, another group of fishermen continues their activities, staying in groups of five to ten for safety against potential confrontations with Chinese vessels, as explained by Joey Marabe, provincial director of Pamalakaya Zambales.
In response, the Philippine Coast Guard has increased its presence in the West Philippine Sea, with the Philippine Air Force conducting patrols. Retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio has encouraged local fishers to assert their rights in Philippine waters, emphasizing that fear would result in a loss of territory.
The Philippines has formally requested the United Nations to extend its boundaries further into the South China Sea, countering China's aggressive actions. Despite the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration invalidating China's nine-dash line claims, Beijing continues to pursue "friendly consultation" while disregarding the ruling.
Under President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., the Philippines has filed 153 diplomatic protests against China's territorial claims.
No comments:
Post a Comment