24-9-2023 (MANILA) In a high-seas chase within the contested waters of Scarborough Shoal, Filipino fisherman Arnel Satam was pursued by Chinese coast guard speedboats, as he sought access to this resource-rich area. Satam, who was on his tiny wooden boat, attempted to outrun the faster Chinese vessels in a bid to reach the ring of reefs controlled by China, where fish are more abundant. This pursuit, which took several minutes, was observed by AFP journalists on the Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources ship BRP Datu Bankaw.
The disputed Scarborough Shoal is located 240km west of the Philippines’ main island of Luzon, far from the nearest significant Chinese landmass of Hainan, which is nearly 900km away. The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea states that countries have jurisdiction over natural resources within approximately 370km – equivalent to 200 nautical miles – from their shores.
However, China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea and took control of Scarborough Shoal from the Philippines in 2012. Since then, Chinese coast guard and other vessels have been deployed to restrict access to this vital fishing ground.
During a recent mission, the Chinese coast guard allegedly installed a 300m floating barrier across the shoal’s entrance, which obstructed Filipino fishermen’s access. This development has caused outrage among Philippine officials and fishermen, as it hampers their livelihood and access to the area.
The Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources periodically conducts resupply missions to enable Filipino fishermen to stay at sea for longer periods and catch more fish. However, China’s patrols make this increasingly challenging.
Despite warnings from Chinese coast guard vessels ordering the BRP Datu Bankaw to leave “Chinese territory,” the Philippine ship’s crew distributed 60 tonnes of fuel and food to Filipino fishermen. This support was met with gratitude, as some fishermen gifted tubs of freshly caught fish in appreciation.
The Filipino fishermen have expressed their frustration with China’s actions, blaming the Chinese for making their already challenging profession even more difficult. Overfishing by various countries in the region has forced Filipino fishermen to spend longer periods at sea to cover their costs and generate a small profit.
They are seeking access to Scarborough Shoal, which they consider theirs. China’s blockade of the area has left the fishermen feeling helpless and oppressed.
