Chinese harassment of Filipino fishermen off Scarborough Shoal contrary to sea row ruling

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27): Chinese harassment of Filipino fishermen off Scarborough Shoal contrary to sea row ruling

Continued Chinese Coast Guard harassment of Filipino fishermen lawfully going about their business off Scarborough Shoal (Bajo De Masinloc) is contrary to the United Nations Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruling declaring the area as a traditional fishing ground and open to all.

"Their action runs counter to the ruling of the PCA and denies our fisher folk access to what has always been their traditional fishing ground. We advise our countrymen to always keep their personal safety in mind when venturing into the area. As of late, our government has instructed our Philippine Coast Guard to maintain a constant presence in Bajo De Masinloc. The AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) meanwhile, will continue to monitor all activities in the area," Department of National Defense (DND) public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong said.

He issued this statement in wake of the National Security Council- Task Force West Philippine Sea report claiming that Chinese Coast Guard vessels harrassed Filipino fisherfolks fishing in the area last September 6.

"The issue is now in the hands of our diplomats especially in light of the PCA's ruling. The DND and AFP will carry out any orders handed to us by the Commander-in-Chief, however, the President has expressed on many occasions that military action is currently not an option," Andolong said when asked on whether there is a need for the AFP or Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to increase its role in securing Filipino fishermen.

Andolong also stopped short of advising Filipino fishermen from venturing off Scarborough Shoal as it is their right.

"It is their right to go to Bajo De Masinloc because it is supposed to be open (as it is considered a traditional fishing ground and open to all), however we would advise them to always put their personal safety first and foremost because we not know how the other party will react to their presence, however the PCG is constantly on patrol in the area," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=0&sid=&nid=0&rid=926551