Philippine agencies boost patrols in West Philippine Sea

Four government agencies including the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Philippine National Police – Maritime Group (PNP-MG), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines have joined forces to strengthen maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea.

As of Wednesday, April 28, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea reported that Chinese Coast Guard vessels were present in Bajo de Masinloc off Zambales, Municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan, and Ayungin Shoal.

The task force noted these incursions are under review for potential diplomatic actions.

Despite ongoing protests, the PCG conducted maritime patrols in Kalayaan and Bajo de Masinloc with its capacity-building exercises.