Lawmakers condemn China’s installation of a barrier at Scarborough Shoal that blocks Filipino fishing boats from entering the area.
Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed outrage at China’s aggressive act of preventing Filipino fishermen from accessing their own waters. She emphasized that Filipino fisherfolk depend on the seas for their livelihood and called on the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to escort them through the barriers.
Hontiveros stressed that the national government should not allow such acts to go unpunished, as they pose a threat to the lives of Filipino fishermen.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri echoed Hontiveros’ sentiments, stating that China has no authority to construct anything within the Exclusive Economic Zone. He highlighted the danger posed to fishing boats, as they can get entangled in the barriers and sustain damage.
Senator Francis Tolentino supported the removal of the floating barrier, emphasizing that China’s actions violate international law.
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva criticized China for disregarding Philippine sovereignty through this latest action.
During a maritime patrol on September 22, personnel from the PCG and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) aboard BRP Datu Bankaw discovered the 300-meter-long barrier.
The installation of the floating barrier has sparked widespread concern among lawmakers and government agencies, with calls for its immediate removal and a firm stance against China’s encroachment on Philippine waters.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 25, 2023
