7-4-2024 (MANILA) In a recent incident of Chinese harassment in Philippine waters, Filipino fishermen found themselves at the receiving end of intimidation tactics deployed by two China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels.
According to PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela, on the morning of April 4, two CCG vessels attempted to intimidate Filipino fishermen who were assisting personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in installing payao or floating devices near Rosul Reef, situated within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. The area is just 128 nautical miles from Palawan.
Tarriela reported that the CCG vessels, bearing bow numbers 21551 and 21556, engaged in harassing behaviour towards the Filipino fishing boats involved in the PCG-BFAR operation. The crewmembers of the Chinese vessels allegedly pretended to man water cannons, posing threats to the Filipino fishermen.
These particular CCG vessels are known for their involvement in interdicting resupply operations in Ayungin Shoal, Tarriela noted.
Despite the harassment, it remains unclear whether the Filipino fishermen proceeded with their activities in the area.
Tarriela attributed China’s persistent bullying tactics to greed and its unfounded claim that the waters belong to them, based on their disputed 10-dash line claim in the South China Sea. He criticised China for unlawfully attempting to deprive Filipinos of their rights to access resources within their exclusive economic zone.
In a recent social media post, Tarriela urged the public to unite and assert the Philippines’ sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, countering China’s dissemination of misinformation and propaganda. He emphasized the importance of educating fellow Filipinos who may have been misled by China’s false narratives, advocating for the dissemination of accurate information with courtesy and professionalism.
Tarriela also cautioned against using language that incites hatred and division among Filipinos, highlighting the significance of unity and patriotism, drawing inspiration from the country’s history of revolution.
