Chinese ships attempt to block PCG, BFAR in Palawan

June 19, 2025 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Four China Coast Guard (CCG) ships tried to prevent the Philippine Coast Guard and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources from installing floating aggregate devices (FADs), or instruments for boosting fish catch, around Spratly Islands in the West Philippine Sea.

In a statement, PCG spokesman on WPS issues Commodore Jay Tarriela said the Chinese coast guard ships issued radio challenges and engaged PCG and BFAR vessels in dangerous maneuvers.

“Throughout the operation, the PCG and BFAR faced radio challenges and dangerous maneuvers from four China Coast Guard vessels attempting to hinder the deployment of FADs,” Tarriela said.

“Our crew, especially the radio operators, responded with professionalism and composure, successfully maintaining our maritime presence with dignity and courage,” he said.

The devices were placed around Hasa Hasa (Half Moon) Shoal and Kanduli (Royal Captain) Shoal, which are part of the Spratly Islands or the Kalayaan Island Group.

For the three-day FAD laying operation, the PCG deployed three 44-meter multi-role response vessels while the BFAR dispatched MV Mamalakaya and another vessel manned by PCG personnel.

They have so far installed 20 FADs designed to attract fish and boost the catch of Filipino fishermen in Palawan.

In another statement, the PCG also announced the completion of another coral reef rehabilitation activity around Pag-asa Island through its Marine Science Group.

Coast Guard Staff for Marine Environmental Protection assistant deputy chief Commander James Barandino led the coral rehabilitation mission.

The coral rehabilitation project was undertaken by the PCG in cooperation with the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development and with marine scientists from Western Philippines University-Puerto Princesa Campus.

‘None of their business’

Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. reiterated that the Philippines does not want to quarrel with China but will not allow its giant Asian neighbor to dictate on its security initiatives.

Asked in an interview over CBS News “60 Minutes” if China was angered by the country’s joint exercises with the United States, including the latter’s deployment of a mid-range missile system in some parts of the country, Teodoro said: “My answer is simple: that is none of their business. What we do within our territory is for our defense, especially since we follow international law.”

“China says we are risking war through our actions. But they blame the world every time we stand up against them. So let me be clear: we do not seek conflict, but we are also not letting them get away with what they are doing,” he said.

In the interview, Teodoro described China as “the proverbial schoolyard bully” who “just muscles you over.” — Michael Punongbayan