De Lima wants Senate inquiry on harassment of fishermen

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Leila de Lima wants a Senate inquiry into the harassment of Filipino fishermen by members of the Chinese coast guard at the Panatag Shoal.

De Lima said there is a need for the administration to enforce mechanisms that would promote sustainable fishing at Panatag and improve the plight of local fishermen who go there.

“The administration should champion the economic situation of our fisherfolk by standing up for their losses, enforcing mechanisms that boost their profit and promote sustainable fishing in the disputed area,” De Lima said in Senate Resolution 766. 

“With fisheries being a major industry in the country, it is incumbent upon government to take positive action to preserve this trade and take a stand in protecting our fisherfolk from any untoward action,” she added. 

It was reported earlier that the Chinese coast guard have been harassing Filipino fishermen at the Panatag Shoal, which is off the coast of Zambales and claimed by the Philippines as part of its exclusive economic zone. 

According to the reports, the Chinese coast guard personnel took the catch of the Filipino fishermen. 

It was also reported that there were instances when the Chinese exchanged the fish they took with noodles, water and cigarettes. 

In a television interview, one of the fishermen said they were defenseless and could not do anything every time the Chinese would check their containers and pick their best catch. 

De Lima said the administration should prioritize the wellbeing of its people first before favoring “its foreign master that is China.” 

She reminded government leaders that “upholding national interest is the essence of preserving democratic institutions.”

“While diplomacy remains an important component of foreign policy, government should unquestionably put the welfare of our Filipino fishermen at the forefront and be steadfast in asserting their rights under any circumstance,” she added.