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PCG, BFAR Boost Patrols In Scarborough Shoal After Fishermen Harassment Reports
Screengrab from PCG
Philippine maritime authorities have stepped up their presence in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), deploying additional vessels to protect Filipino fishermen following reported harassment by Chinese ships in the disputed waters.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) sent multiple vessels to the area after Filipino fishing boats reported interference from Chinese vessels over the weekend. Authorities did not publicly confirm the exact number of boats involved but said the deployment was meant to ensure safety and maintain access to traditional fishing grounds.
Aside from security patrols, the joint mission also included assistance to fishermen. Fuel subsidies, food packs, and ice supplies were distributed to help extend fishing trips and ease operational costs.
PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan also ordered an aerial maritime domain awareness (MDA) mission over the shoal to monitor activity in the area.
During the aerial patrol, Philippine authorities observed several Chinese vessels, including ships believed to be from the China Coast Guard and maritime militia. Officials, however, did not release exact figures, noting that vessel presence in the area tends to fluctuate.
The PCG also reported monitoring radio communications from a Chinese vessel indicating a planned clearing operation within parts of the shoal. Philippine authorities said they are verifying the details, raising concerns about possible restrictions on fishing access.
Bajo de Masinloc, located about 124 nautical miles off Zambales, remains a key flashpoint in the West Philippine Sea dispute. In 2016, an international arbitral tribunal ruled in favor of the Philippines and invalidated China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea. Despite this, Chinese vessels have maintained a regular presence in the area.
The latest deployment reflects ongoing efforts by the Philippine government to assert its rights in the West Philippine Sea while supporting local fishing communities.
Under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., maritime agencies have increased patrols and assistance missions in contested waters, combining law enforcement operations with humanitarian support.
For fishing communities in western Luzon, the situation continues to carry economic consequences. Limited access to fishing grounds and rising fuel costs have made it more difficult for small-scale fishermen to sustain their livelihoods, making government support and security presence increasingly important.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) sent multiple vessels to the area after Filipino fishing boats reported interference from Chinese vessels over the weekend. Authorities did not publicly confirm the exact number of boats involved but said the deployment was meant to ensure safety and maintain access to traditional fishing grounds.
Aside from security patrols, the joint mission also included assistance to fishermen. Fuel subsidies, food packs, and ice supplies were distributed to help extend fishing trips and ease operational costs.
PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan also ordered an aerial maritime domain awareness (MDA) mission over the shoal to monitor activity in the area.
During the aerial patrol, Philippine authorities observed several Chinese vessels, including ships believed to be from the China Coast Guard and maritime militia. Officials, however, did not release exact figures, noting that vessel presence in the area tends to fluctuate.
The PCG also reported monitoring radio communications from a Chinese vessel indicating a planned clearing operation within parts of the shoal. Philippine authorities said they are verifying the details, raising concerns about possible restrictions on fishing access.
Bajo de Masinloc, located about 124 nautical miles off Zambales, remains a key flashpoint in the West Philippine Sea dispute. In 2016, an international arbitral tribunal ruled in favor of the Philippines and invalidated China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea. Despite this, Chinese vessels have maintained a regular presence in the area.
The latest deployment reflects ongoing efforts by the Philippine government to assert its rights in the West Philippine Sea while supporting local fishing communities.
Under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., maritime agencies have increased patrols and assistance missions in contested waters, combining law enforcement operations with humanitarian support.
For fishing communities in western Luzon, the situation continues to carry economic consequences. Limited access to fishing grounds and rising fuel costs have made it more difficult for small-scale fishermen to sustain their livelihoods, making government support and security presence increasingly important.
Mar 24, 2026
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