2 months ago
39
Upgrade to High-Speed Internet for only ₱1499/month!
Enjoy up to 100 Mbps fiber broadband, perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming.
Visit Suniway.ph to learn
Jean Mangaluz - Philstar.com
January 13, 2026 | 6:50pm
MANILA, Philippines — Chinese vessels were seen harassing a Filipino fishing boat en route to its fishing grounds in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough or Panatag Shoal) on Monday, January 12, prompting the Philippine Coast Guard to intervene and escort the local vessel.
Fisherman Ryan Jacinto and his crew were aboard the FFB Prince LJ when a Chinese warship approached them as they headed toward the fishing area, according to Jacinto's account relayed by the Philippine Coast Guard.
Jacinto said a People's Liberation Army Navy vessel identified as PLAN 621 and a China Coast Guard ship (CCGV 23521), maneuvered within about 30 meters of the fishing boat and blocked its path.
The Chinese vessels blared their sirens at FFB Prince LJ, forcing the smaller vessel to change course to avoid a collision, Jacinto said.
Despite altering course, the fishing vessel was still tailed by the two Chinese ships, which Jacinto said drove them farther away from their intended route.
The PCG's BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408) later met the fishing boat, allowing Jacinto to report the incident. The PCG said no fisherfolk were injured.
The Coast Guard also provided the fishermen with 10 containers of diesel to allow them to continue their fishing operations.
PCG reiterates stance
“The Philippine Coast Guard remains steadfast in defending the safety and maritime rights of our fishermen, in full accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” PCG Commandant Ronnie Gil Gavan said in a statement.
China habitually asserts claims in the West Philippine Sea, encroaching upon and even denying access to traditional Filipino fishing grounds, despite the 2016 arbitral ruling that favored the Philippines.
Chinese vessels have figured in a series of tense encounters in the area, including incidents involving water cannon use and harassment of smaller Philippine boats.
