MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) have reaffirmed their commitment to protect Filipino fishermen in the Kalayaan Island Group, following reports of aggressive harassment and direct threats from Chinese vessels in the territorial waters of Pag-asa Island.

According to the agencies, at around 8:15 a.m., three BFAR vessels — including the BRP Datu Pagbuaya — were anchored near Pag-asa Island to provide protection to Filipino fishermen under the “Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda” (KBBM) program when they were confronted by the China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese Maritime Militia vessels.

The Chinese ships reportedly approached at close range and activated their water cannons in what officials described as a clear act of provocation. The situation escalated at 9:15 a.m. when CCG vessel 21559 fired a water cannon directly at BRP Datu Pagbuaya, hitting the vessel. Three minutes later, the same Chinese ship rammed the stern of the Filipino vessel, causing minor structural damage but no injuries to the crew.

Despite the incident, both the PCG and BFAR vowed to remain steadfast in asserting the country’s rights and ensuring the safety of Filipino fishermen.

“The harassment we faced today only strengthens our resolve,” said PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan. “Filipino fisherfolk depend on these waters, and neither water cannons nor ramming will deter us from fulfilling our commitment to President Ferdinand Marcos to not surrender a square inch of our territory to any foreign power.”