Chinese militia vessels moored at the Sabina Shoal inside the Philippines' exclusive economic zone dispersed after being challenged by the Philippine Coast Guard, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon has said.
May 5, 2021
National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon the Philippines is not covered by the fishing restrictions in the South China Sea implemented by China from May 1 to August 16.
“This fishing ban does not apply to our fishermen and the NTF-WPS opposes China’s imposition of the same over the areas within the territory and jurisdiction of the Philippines. The NTF-WPS reiterates that our fisherfolk are encouraged to go out and fish in our waters in the WPS,” said Esperon.
The country’s maritime exercises will also continue to protect the Philippines’ territorial waters from illegal unreported fishing as well as enforce maritime security and safety, the official also noted.