The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has vowed to continue its marine research missions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) despite ongoing harassment from the China Coast Guard (CCG).
According to BFAR spokesperson Nazario Briguera, the agency will not be deterred by China’s repeated use of water cannons against Philippine vessels, stressing that this is not the first time such aggression has occurred.
BFAR confirmed that their vessels, BRP Datu Sanday and BRP Datu Pagbuaya, were subjected to water cannon attacks and dangerous blocking maneuvers by the CCG while conducting a scientific mission near Pag-asa Cay 2 (Sandy Cay).
The mission involved the collection of sand samples as part of a broader marine scientific research project.
Despite the hostile actions by the Chinese Coast Guard and its maritime militia, the Philippine scientific team successfully completed operations around Pag-asa Cays 1, 2, and 3.
BFAR emphasized that the incident occurred within the Philippines’ territorial sea, which falls under the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea—territory recognized under Philippine jurisdiction.
In response, the China Coast Guard claimed it was enforcing “control measures” against what it described as “illegal” entry by Philippine vessels into Subi Reef and Sandy Cay.
Briguera, however, rejected China’s accusations, stating that there is evidence to prove which party is at fault. He also highlighted the damage caused to BFAR’s vessels, estimating that repair costs could reach several million pesos.
Despite rising tensions in the region, BFAR maintains that it will continue fulfilling its mandate to conduct scientific research and safeguard the country’s marine resources.
