BFAR says China's WPS threat unlikely to impact PH fisheries

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) stated that China's threat to detain "intruding" fishing boat crews in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is not expected to significantly impact the Philippines' fisheries production.

BFAR spokesperson Nazario Briguera emphasized that the WPS is a significant contributor to the nation's fisheries production, accounting for 6% to 7% of the total sector.

He reiterated that the Philippines does not recognize China's unilateral declaration and will continue to assert its right to fish within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The Chinese government has authorized its coast guard to detain for 60 days without trial any boat crew members found in the disputed waters.

BFAR has yet to receive reports of China detaining any Filipino boat crews.

Briguera added that if any fishermen were arrested, it would be a new provocation and a violation of international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.