Philippines encourages fishermen in WPS despite China's ban

The Philippines has encouraged Filipino fishermen to continue their activities in the West Philippine Sea despite China's annual fishing ban.

NTF WPS chair Hermogenes Esperon stated that China’s fishing ban does not apply to Filipino waters and fisherfolk are encouraged to fish within their territory.

China has been imposing this fishing ban since 1999, but the Philippines opposes it over areas within its jurisdiction.