Diego Jose Ramos

PCG Deploys Vessels and Aircraft to Safeguard Filipino Fishermen in BDM The Philippine Coast Guard has deployed three vessels (8301, 4408 and 4409) and aircraft to provide security and support to more than 40 to 50 Filipino fishing boats operating in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc since January 26, 2026. The deployment is in furtherance of the Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda (KBBM) program of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which aims to empower and sustain Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea. The fishing vessels come from the provinces of Zambales, Bataan, Pangasinan, and Mindoro. The PCG operation ensures the safety and security of Filipino fishermen from possible harassment by Chinese maritime forces. During the mission, PCG assets documented the presence of three China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels (3105, 3106, and 2307) in the area. Despite the continued presence of these CCG vessels, Filipino fishermen have steadfastly continued to fish in these waters, exercising their rightful access to fish. The PCG remains firmly in position, protecting the fishermen and asserting our sovereign rights. This operation underscores the unwavering resolve of the Philippines: Filipino fishermen will continue to fish in these waters, and the PCG will continue to protect them and uphold UNCLOS, the 2016 Arbitral Award and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act. As part of the mission, the fishermen received essential support, including fuel subsidies, freshwater, ice, and food packs, to sustain their extended fishing activities. The fishermen expressed profound gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his unwavering support. The Philippine Coast Guard reaffirms its commitment to protecting our sovereign rights and the livelihoods of Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea.

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