ABS-CBN
PCG maintains presence in Bajo de Masinloc despite China’s arrest threat
Filipino fishermen are seeking protection from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) amid China's new policy allowing the detention of foreign trespassers in areas claimed by Beijing.
The new policy, which took effect on June 15, permits the China Coast Guard to detain individuals for up to 60 days without trial.
Despite fears of detention, the number of Filipino fishing boats in the Bajo de Masinloc has increased since the PCG deployed vessels to patrol the area.
PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela stated that the number of monitored Filipino fishing boats in Bajo de Masinloc increased from three on June 15 to ten currently.
PCG spokesperson Armand Balilo stated that patrol operations are ongoing and they are sustaining their presence to accompany fishermen and alleviate their concerns.
The Philippines does not recognize China's policy and asserts its jurisdiction in the waters, stating it will not allow China to arrest Filipinos in its own territory.
The PCG has confirmed no arrests have been made so far.
Fishermen fear being made an example and detained by China, leading some to fish closer to shore or remain on land.
Topics in this story
Explore more stories about these topics.
🤖
This story was generated by AI to help you understand the key points. For more detailed coverage, please see the news articles from trusted media outlets below.
News Sources
See how different news organizations are covering this story. Below are the original articles from various Philippine news sources that contributed to this summary.
The Philippine Navy has increased maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea to counter China's threat of detaining "trespassers" starting June 15.
Read more →
Mindanao fisherfolk are calling for government protection due to sightings of Chinese Navy ships in the Basilan Strait, fearing displacement from traditional fishing grounds.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will continue its maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea, emphasizing its duty to protect Filipinos, especially fishermen, amid China's new restrictive policies.
Read more →
Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel conducted a ceremonial flag-raising at Sabina Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on Wednesday, marking the first time this has occurred at the location during Independence Day celebrations.
Read more →