PCG aids fishermen amid Chinese harassment at Rozul Reef

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) faced dangerous maneuvers by Chinese Coast Guard vessels while assisting Filipino fishermen near Rozul Reef on Saturday night, November 30.

On Sunday, the PCG deployed two ships—BRP Melchora Aquino and BRP Cape Engaño—to Rozul Reef after receiving complaints of harassment from Filipino fisherfolk.

Fishermen reported that a Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy helicopter with tail number 65 hovered as low as 15 feet above their vessels on November 27, causing significant concern and fear.

Despite severe weather conditions and interference from Chinese vessels, the PCG managed to reach the Filipino fishermen, providing assistance and food packs for Christmas.

Fishermen reported a decrease in catches by 60-70% compared to previous years due to ongoing harassment and monitoring by Chinese authorities.

The PCG remains committed to upholding Philippine sovereignty and supporting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s stance on territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea, ensuring the safety of Filipino fishers while they exercise their right to fish freely in Rozul Reef.