Number of fishermen in WPS up 60% - BFAR

More Filipino fishermen have begun dropping their nets again in the West Philippine Sea, with a ranking official from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) claiming they have increased by more than half - encouraged largely by greater government presence and support against Chinese harassment.

- BELLA CARIASO

In an interview on board the M/V DA-BFAR, BFAR spokesman Nazario Briguera said the fishers-especially those operating around the Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal area - now feel greater support from the government, particularly the BFAR and Philippine Coast Guard.

"If you can recall, I already stated last month the increase (in the number of fisherfolk), particularly at Scarborough as they already felt the presence of the government," Briguera said.

He did not give specific details but he maintained that greater presence of the government has encouraged fishermen to resume their trade in the country's waters.