Balayan, Batangas – Senatorial candidate Ariel Querubin is advocating for the modernization of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to strengthen maritime security in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Querubin, a retired Marine colonel, met with local fishermen on Thursday, discussing their experiences of harassment from Chinese vessels, including water cannon attacks and being chased out of traditional fishing grounds.
“China has 100 ships; how many do we have? Just a few… We need to speed up our modernization to strengthen the Coast Guard and ensure your safety,” Querubin said.
PCG Seeks Stronger Support
The PCG recently welcomed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s acknowledgment of China’s aggressive actions in the WPS, including:
✔ Laser attacks
✔ Ramming incidents
✔ Harassment of Filipino fishermen
PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela expressed relief that the President is fully aware of the challenges faced by the PCG, AFP, and local fishers.
President Marcos has demanded China cease its aggressions, following Beijing’s call for the removal of US Typhon Missile Systems from the Philippines.