WPS.News: Chinese Fishing Activity in Disputed Waters Remains High in October 2024

Baybay City, Philippines – October 31, 2024 – Reports of Chinese fishing vessels operating within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) remained prevalent throughout October 2024. This ongoing activity raises concerns about illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, as well as potential threats to Philippine maritime security and livelihoods.

According to Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reports and monitoring by local fisherfolk organizations, numerous sightings of large Chinese fishing fleets were documented within the WPS this month. These vessels have been observed in areas near Pag-asa Island (Thitu Island), the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), and the Scarborough Shoal (Panatag Shoal).

The presence of these fleets raises a number of concerns:

• Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing: Chinese fishing practices have been repeatedly linked to overfishing and depletion of fish stocks in the region. The unregulated nature of these activities can have a devastating impact on the sustainability of marine resources in the WPS, affecting not only the Philippines but also neighboring countries.
• Maritime Security: The large number of Chinese vessels operating within the Philippines’ EEZ raises concerns about potential intimidation tactics and interference with Philippine漁業 (gyogyō – fisheries) operations. Additionally, the unregulated nature of these fleets makes it difficult to monitor their activities and raises questions about potential security risks.
• Livelihoods of Filipino Fisherfolk: The overfishing practices associated with large Chinese fleets directly threaten the livelihoods of Filipino fisherfolk who depend on the rich marine resources of the WPS for their income and way of life.

The Philippine government has consistently protested the presence of Chinese fishing vessels within its EEZ, filing diplomatic complaints and deploying PCG vessels to monitor and challenge these activities. However, the issue remains a source of tension and frustration.

Looking Ahead:

As November begins, it remains to be seen if the presence of Chinese fishing fleets in the WPS will continue at the same level. The Philippine government is likely to continue its efforts to monitor and deter these activities, while also pursuing diplomatic channels to find a long-term solution.

WPS.News will continue to follow developments in the WPS and provide updates on the situation. We encourage our readers to stay informed and engaged on this critical issue.