Filipino Fishermen Encouraged to Fish in Disputed Sea

The Department of National Defense (DND) has encouraged the Filipino fishermen to continue fishing in the disputed area. It called on other countries to respect protocols when conducting activities on international waters. "Just as Philippines honors our international obligations and protocols, we also expect other countries and their vessels to do the same, especially when sailing and fishing in the international waters."

There have been numerous reports of Chinese vessels deployed in the vicinity of Pag-asa Island. This is regarded as one of the largest features in the Spratly Islands. In an official statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Western Command (Wescom) has been monitoring the presence of Chinese vessels in the area.

Salvador Panelo, the Presidential spokesperson said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has assured Wescom that a diplomatic protest will be filed against Beijing. However, he described the Chinese ships as loitering in the area and not as reported in the news. Panelo said the number of Chinese ships around the Pag-asa were exaggerated.

The Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative, a Washington-based think tank had earlier this year released satellite photos showing the People's Liberation Army Navy, Chinese Coast Guard ships and fishing vessels near Subi Reef. Reports say the Chinese vessels had been operating in the area around the same time Philippines started repairs on Pag-asa Island in July 2018.