The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recently confirmed the presence of over 50 Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) vessels near Rozul Reef, located within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the West Philippine Sea.

Commo. Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for West Philippine Sea matters, stated that upon receiving intelligence reports of potential illegal activities, two PCG vessels and a surveillance aircraft were dispatched to the area, around 130 nautical miles off Palawan.

Upon reaching the location, the PCG verified the presence of numerous Chinese vessels either scattered or grouped near the reef.

PCG personnel immediately communicated with the vessels over radio, informing them of their presence in Philippine waters and urging them to depart. They cited relevant laws and agreements, including the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

The Chinese vessels were instructed to clarify their presence, cease swarming, and adhere to international and domestic laws. However, no response was received from the CMM vessels.

To gather additional evidence, the PCG deployed rigid hull inflatable boats to approach the militia vessels closely and document their bow numbers, particularly those anchored in the shallow parts of the reef.

The PCG emphasized its commitment to patrolling and monitoring Philippine waters to prevent unauthorized incursions and enforce maritime regulations. These actions align with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to uphold the country's territorial rights through peaceful and rules-based methods.

Rozul Reef, also known as Iroquois Reef, has been a frequent site of Chinese militia vessel sightings, which Manila views as a threat to regional stability and Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.

In a related effort, the PCG and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) successfully completed a three-day floating aggregate device (FAD) Laying Operation in Hasa Hasa and Kanduli Shoals, also within the Philippine EEZ.

As part of the Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda program, 20 FADs were strategically positioned in collaboration with local fisherfolk to enhance food security and support Filipino fishermen's livelihoods.

Despite obstruction attempts by four China Coast Guard vessels, the PCG and BFAR personnel managed to complete the mission, reinforcing the Philippines' sovereign rights under international law.

The operation not only aids in food production and fisherfolk welfare but also sends a clear message that the Philippines will assert its maritime entitlements without succumbing to coercion or intimidation.

In a statement, the PCG affirmed the country's commitment to defending its territorial rights and ensuring a future where Filipino fishermen can thrive in their rightful seas.