Several fisherfolk groups have urged the government to bolster maritime security off Western Mindanao after Chinese Navy ships were observed sailing in the area.
“They might not be that aggressive now here, but we don’t know what will happen next given the tense situation in the WPS (West Philippine Sea),” stated Roberto “Ka Dodoy” Ballon, leader of Katipunan ng mga Kilusang Artisanong Mangingisda sa Pilipinas, in a statement on Sunday. “That is why there must be an aggressive action from our government, especially since they are penetrating our territorial waters and threats are imminent.”
On June 7, two Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels were spotted passing through the Basilan Strait near the Zamboanga Peninsula. In May, the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Mindanao Command confirmed the “innocent passage” of four PLAN vessels through the Sibutu Passage off Tawi-Tawi.
Concerns Over Double Standards
Edicio “Ed” Dela Torre, president of the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement, highlighted the perceived double standard in China’s actions. “It’s just so unfair that while Chinese warships freely navigate the waters in Mindanao, we are thrown out of our waters in the West Philippine Sea,” Ballon added.
Dela Torre criticized China’s navigation in Philippine waters, stating it exemplifies a “double standard” under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. He expressed concern that Filipino fishermen might face increased harassment and threats while attempting to fish in their own waters.
The Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement is an NGO focused on rural development and local democracy in the country.
In response, the Philippine Coast Guard has deployed maritime security groups in critical regions, including the Western Visayas, to enhance security in domestic waters.