Manila Bulletin
AFP to hold regular patrols in WPS amid China's fishing ban
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will continue regular maritime and aerial patrols in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) despite China's unilateral fishing ban.
AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla affirmed that the Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force are continuously conducting patrols to ensure the safety and security of Filipino fishermen.
The AFP objects to China's fishing moratorium, effective from May 1 to September 16, stating it lacks legal basis and breaches the Philippines' maritime claims under UNCLOS and the 2016 arbitral decision.
The ban encompasses Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), a traditional fishing ground for Filipino fishermen within the Philippines' maritime zones.
Colonel Padilla emphasized that the AFP's operations are in adherence to the Philippine Constitution and national sovereignty.
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The Philippines has protested China's unilateral fishing ban in the South China Sea, asserting it violates international law and undermines Philippine sovereignty and maritime rights.
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