Manila: Sen. Risa Hontiveros on Sunday called on the government to provide regular Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) escorts and secure adequate funding to protect Filipino fishers operating in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This appeal followed reports of Chinese vessels firing water cannons at Filipino boats, resulting in injuries to local fisherfolk.
According to Philippines News Agency, the incident has underscored the urgent need to enhance maritime protection, with Hontiveros warning that ongoing acts of aggression continue to jeopardize Filipino lives within the country’s exclusive economic zone. She condemned China’s actions, highlighting the challenges faced by Filipino fishermen in their own waters.
The senator emphasized that the Philippines should expedite defense and security cooperation with allied nations and ensure sustained funding to reinforce Coast Guard presence in critical fishing areas. Hontiveros stressed the importance of not leaving the fisherfolk defenseless, advocating for more Coast Guard personnel and vessels to accompany them in the WPS.
Hontiveros also referenced previous incidents involving injured Navy and Coast Guard personnel, cautioning that the country cannot afford to be unprepared as China’s actions persistently threaten Filipino lives. The PCG had reported that three Filipino fishermen were injured after Chinese vessels used high-pressure water cannons and performed hazardous maneuvers against fishing boats near Escoda (Sabina) Shoal.
PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela detailed that the incident occurred on Friday while approximately 20 Filipino fishing boats were operating off Palawan within the country’s 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone. The fishermen sustained bruises and open wounds, with two fishing boats damaged and anchor lines of several vessels cut, leaving them vulnerable in rough seas.
PCG vessels dispatched to assist the fishermen faced blocking maneuvers but successfully provided medical aid and supplies, as the agency urged China to adhere to international law and prioritize civilian safety at sea.
