House probe urged on China ‘signal jamming’ over West Philippine Sea

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March 2, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Congress should investigate reports of signal jamming experienced by Philippine fisheries and Coast Guard vessels patrolling near Panatag Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea, a lawmaker said yesterday.

Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon underscored the need for an inquiry, in aid of legislation, after Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela insinuated that Beijing may have been instrumental in jeopardizing the PCG’s patrol over the West Philippine Sea.

“Congress should investigate the reported Chinese cyber activities in the West Philippine Sea, including the alleged jamming or disruption of internet and communications services around Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal),” Ridon said.

On Feb. 24, Tarriela posted on Facebook a narration of the “signal jamming” experienced by a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources aircraft during a routine patrol over Bajo de Masinloc.

Ridon reiterated that the House probe – should it start – should cover other areas where the Philippines exercises sovereignty and sovereign rights. The lawmaker also cited the human and environmental costs that may arise from such territorial disputes.

“The inquiry should examine impacts on fisherfolk, maritime safety, disaster response, and the operations of civilian and government vessels, and identify the agencies’ capability gaps and needed countermeasures,” he said.