Chinese Coast Guard issues challenge, attempts to block fishing vessels in Palawan

Metro Manila, Philippines - Four Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) ships challenged and attempted to block several Filipino vessels while they were installing fishing devices in Hasa Hasa Shoal, Palawan, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.

The challenge was issued while PCG and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessels were installing floating aggregate devices (FADs), widely known as “payao” or instruments used to attract and catch fish.

“Throughout the operation, the PCG and BFAR faced radio challenges and dangerous maneuvers from four China Coast Guard vessels attempting to hinder the deployment of FADs,” Spokesperson on West Philippine Sea issues Commodore Jay Tarriela said in a statement on Wednesday, June 18.

“Our crew, especially the radio operators, responded with professionalism and composure, successfully maintaining our maritime presence with dignity and courage,” he added.

Tarriela said the PCG fishing operation involved three of its own vessels, two BFAR ships, and some other local fishing boats. The three-day initiative ran from June 16 to 18.

A total of 20 FADs were deployed in the Hasa Hasa (Half Moon) and Kanduli Shoals, which are areas part of the Spratly Islands or the Kalayaan Island Group.

PCG said the operation and deployment of FADs are meant to boost the catch of fishermen in palawan and enhance local fisheries.

Philippine authorities and officials have repeatedly stressed that patrols and operations are always in line with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the 2016 Arbitral Award, and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act.

PCG earlier said CCG’s illegal patrols “jeopardize the lives of fishermen and legitimate law enforcement agencies alike."