The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has obtained video evidence showing members of the China Coast Guard (CCG) allegedly harassing Filipino fishermen near Scarborough Shoal on January 12.
The video, taken by a fisherman named Jack Tabat, depicts CCG members using sirens and ordering the fishermen to throw back sea shells they had collected. The CCG also prevented the fishing boat from departing until the shells were thrown back into the sea.
Commodore Jay Tarriela, the PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, confirmed the possession of the video and stated that the incident occurred while the fishermen were collecting sea shells south of Scarborough Shoal.
Tabat, in his sworn statement, mentioned that the CCG members used sirens as they approached the fishermen and ordered them to throw the shells back into the sea.
The CCG personnel also grabbed the fishing boat and prevented it from leaving until the shells were discarded. When the fishermen attempted to approach the coral reef to help their fellow fishers, they were driven away.
These actions by the CCG are part of a series of incidents of Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea. The PCG has been actively documenting and monitoring these events to ensure accurate reporting and transparency.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 22, 2024
