Rappler
Rappler Recap: Even in Recto Bank, PH faces harassment from China Coast Guard
Two China Coast Guard (CCG) ships harassed Filipino fisherfolk and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) personnel during a food security operation at Rozul Reef on Thursday, April 4.
The CCG vessels, identified with tail numbers 21551 and 21556, shadowed and circled approximately 25 fishing boats that were assisting in the deployment of floating aggregate devices, known as payaos.
CCG personnel were observed pretending to man water cannons, threatening the Filipino fishermen.
The CCG vessels also sailed close to BRP Lapu-Lapu, coming within approximately 100 yards of the Philippine vessel.
US P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft were observed flying overhead multiple times during the operation.
Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, stated that this harassment demonstrates China's unlawful behavior and their attempt to deprive Filipinos of rights to resources within their Exclusive Economic Zone.
He further commented that this aggressive action stems from China's greed and unfounded claim over these waters based on their 'imaginary dashed line'.
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