More PCG,BFAR vessels to be deployed in WPS

Manila has ordered increased deployment of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessels in Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, aimed mainly at protecting the country's interests and fishermen in the area.

- MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año announced yesterday that such initiatives are being carried out "in line with the vision of 'Bagong Pilipinas' in achieving food security as a pivotal element in national development." 

He declared that the Philippine government has taken decisive action to protect the rights and safety of Filipino fishermen in the waters of Bajo de Masinloc.

Año said the national government has directed the PCG and BFAR to deploy their vessels on rotation in the area starting this month.

He said the PCG vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua recently completed a successful patrol from Feb. 1 to 9 while the BFAR vessel BRP Datu Tamblot has been conducting patrols in the waters of Panatag Shoal since Feb.14 and continues to do so.

"These efforts aim to ensure the safety and security of our Filipino fishermen in their traditional fishing grounds. Further, both PCG and BFAR were also directed to distribute food packs, groceries and even fuel to support the fishermen in sustaining their activities in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc," Año said.