China ships challenge PCG, BFAR vessels setting fishing devices

The Philippine Coast Guard spots a China Coast Guard vessel near a Filipino ship on an operation to deploy floating aggregate devices in the West Philippine Sea on Monday, June 16, 2025. — Photo from the Philippine Coast Guard

MANILA, Philippines — Four China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels challenged several Filipino ships deploying fishing devices in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

The Filipino vessels’ operation ran from Monday to Wednesday, deploying 20 floating aggregate devices (FADs) in the Hasa Hasa (Half Moon) and Kanduli Shoals, the PCG said in a statement on Wednesday.

FADs, also known as “payao,” are used to attract and catch fish.

“Throughout the operation, the PCG and BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources) faced radio challenges and dangerous maneuvers from four China Coast Guard vessels attempting to hinder the deployment of FADs,” the PCG said.

“Our crew, especially the radio operators, responded with professionalism and composure, successfully maintaining our maritime presence with dignity and courage,” it added.

READ: Amid WPS tension, Zambales fishers receive ‘payao’ donation

The operation included three PCG vessels, two BFAR ships and a “significant” number of local fisherfolks’ boats, the PCG detailed.

The deployment of the FADs aimed to improve Filipino fisherfolks’ catch, the PCG further said. /das