Chinese Vessels Confront Philippine Ships Assisting Fishermen in West Philippine Sea

Chinese vessels confronted Filipino maritime assets delivering assistance to fishermen near Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea. During a routine mission, ships from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) faced attempts by Chinese warships and coast guard vessels to push them away from the area. A Chinese warship also issued a radio challenge to the Philippine vessels, which was promptly answered by a BFAR aircraft.

The BFAR and PCG were carrying out their scheduled Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda Program, providing essential supplies such as fuel, ice, and food to Filipino fishermen operating in the disputed shoal located within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the PCG in the West Philippine Sea, highlighted the stark imbalance in forces, stating, "We monitored two Chinese destroyers, a replenishment vessel, and six coast guard ships. Despite the disparity in size and numbers, we steadfastly assert our presence in the West Philippine Sea."

During the BFAR’s maritime domain awareness flight, observers noted yellow buoys installed by China around Bajo de Masinloc, underscoring ongoing efforts to assert control over the contested area.

Meanwhile, Philippine and United States naval forces recently concluded their ninth bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity. The exercise included the Philippine Navy's guided missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal conducting joint surveillance operations alongside the US Navy's guided missile destroyer USS Rafael Peralta. Simultaneously, Philippine Air Force FA-50 light combat jets and a US Navy P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft participated in an aerial patrol over the region.

These developments reflect continuing tensions and the Philippines’ ongoing commitment to safeguard its maritime rights amid increasing Chinese maritime assertiveness in disputed waters.