The Philippine Coast Guard reported the first harassment incident of 2026 by Chinese forces in the West Philippine Sea after a Filipino fishing boat was confronted near Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal.
PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela said the China Coast Guard vessel came as close as 30 meters, blocked the boat’s path, and used blaring sirens while closely trailing it.
The incident was captured on video by the crew of the fishing boat Prince LJ, which later received assistance and fuel from the PCG vessel BRP Cape San Agustin.
Navy spokesperson Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said the aggressive actions were meant to intimidate fishermen and “destroy their will to fish.”
Despite the encounter, the boat’s captain said they remained alert and encouraged by the presence of the PCG, underscoring the importance of government support in protecting Filipino fisherfolk.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 14, 2026
