Philippines files diplomatic protest against China

August 21, 2020

The Department of Foreign Affairs ( DFA) onThursday lodged a diplo matic protest to China over the illegal confiscation by the Chinese Coast Guard of fish aggregating devices  of Filipino fishermen in Bajo de Masinloc in May.

The Philippines also resolutely objected to China’s continuing radio challenges Philippine aircraft conducting legitimate regular maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea.

Although  the shoal is claimed by the Philippines, the arbitral tribunal in The Hague in 2016 said no country can claim to have sovereign rights over Bajo de Masinloc.

The tribunal said it is a traditional fishing ground for Filipino, Chinese and Vietnamese fishermen. DMS