Filipino fishers claim Scarborough Shoal ‘completely encircled’ by Chinese ships

The Philippines’ fisherfolk in Zambales province are facing challenges as Chinese vessels continue to surround Scarborough Shoal, despite the end of China’s annual fishing ban in the South China Sea. Leonardo Cuaresma, President of the New Masinloc Fisherman’s Association, reports that Chinese coastguard and militia vessels have pushed Filipino fishermen back nearly 40 nautical miles from their traditional fishing grounds.

Despite the Philippines’ claim to Scarborough Shoal as part of its exclusive economic zone, China asserts sovereignty over the area. The recent fishing moratorium, framed by Xinhua as a measure to protect marine fisheries and the environment, ended on September 16.