Chinese troops harass PH fishermen in Rozul Reef

A Chinese People’s Army Navy helicopter harassed Filipino fishermen in Rozul (Iroquois) Reef in the West Philippine Sea over the weekend, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Monday.

MANILA, Philippines — PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said they received video and photographs of the incident from the fishermen who returned to Quezon, Palawan, on Nov. 28 from Rozul Reef.

The PCG immediately dispatched BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702) and BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411) to Rozul Reef to secure the other fishermen there. At least 20 Filipino fishing boats were in the reef, located some 237 kilometers (128 nautical miles) from Palawan.

The two PCG vessels were shadowed by two Chinese coast ships once they arrived.

READ: China’s harassment takes toll on PH fishers

Tarriela said the deployment aimed to show proof of “the active presence of Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea” despite potential harassment from the China Coast Guard (CCG).

Last month, the Chinese coast guard harassed and blocked a Philippine boat from entering Escoda (Sabina) Shoal, following the months-long deployment of a PCG ship that was forced to pull out in September after sustaining damage due to constant harassment by the CCG and other Chinese vessels.

In another development, Canada is looking to conclude a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (Sovfa) with the Philippines early next year, according to its envoy to Manila.

“We’re very optimistic. I don’t want to disturb conversations that are taking place, but I can assure you that there are very extensive and comprehensive conversations taking place on the conclusion of the Sovfa, which we’re hoping to do early in the new year,” Canadian Ambassador David Hartman told reporters in a press briefing.

A Sovfa will make it easier for Canada to take part in joint military exercises. The Philippines has a similar agreement with the United States, Australia and Japan.