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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider No to escalation: 'Evidence-based' approach needed in tackling harassment claims in WPS, says Salceda

No to escalation: 'Evidence-based' approach needed in tackling harassment claims in WPS, says Salceda

Published Jun 16, 2023 10:56 am
Albay 2nd district Rep. Joey Salceda (Rep. Salceda’s office)



The Philippines should be "evidence-based" when addressing concerns of local fishermen when it comes to addressing the harassment that they suffer at the hands of foreign vessels in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Thus, said Albay 2nd district Rep. Joey Salceda amid online reports that Filipino fishermen in Pag-asa island in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) are being driven away by Chinese Coast Guard vessels. "We have to be evidence-based here. Is there an increase in Chinese incursions over the concerned waters? Are there recorded incidents of confrontation?" Salceda said in a statement sent to House  of Representatives reporters on Friday afternoon, June 16. "That's not to question the experience of our fishermen, but to build a strong case for any diplomatic or even defensive action," the veteran congressman noted. But as things stand, Salceda said that the Philippines shouldn't go the route of escalation. "The [Philippine] Coast Guard's (PCG) data indicates that there is actually a decrease in the presence of Chinese Coast Guard vessels over the area. So, we might be in the wrong to escalate." "Economic rights over our waters are a national defense and security issue," he underscored. This notwithstanding, Salceda said: "If we can't use what is ours, there's a serious problem." "What the government can do immediately is to sustain aid to affected fishermen and strengthen our patrolling capabilities in Pag-asa," said the chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means. "I also support providing basic marine communication equipment for our fishermen in the area. That would allow them to reach the PCG for immediate help. It would also allow us to record any confrontation in the area," he said.

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WPS Fishermen joey salceda Pag-asa Islands escalation
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