The Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Romeo Brawner, has urged Filipino fishermen to continue fishing in the nation’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea. This call comes in response to new Chinese coastguard rules set to take effect on June 15, which allow China to detain suspected trespassers without trial for up to 60 days.
China claims almost all of the South China Sea, including areas also claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam. These new rules are based on a 2021 Chinese law permitting its coastguard to use lethal force against foreign ships in the waters it claims.
Chief Brawner told reporters that Filipino fishermen should not be afraid and should continue their normal activities in the EEZ. “We have the right to exploit the resources in the area, so our fishermen have no reason to be afraid,” he stated.
The new Chinese rules have raised international concerns. The Philippines described them as “worrisome” and a “provocation.” Taiwan’s coastguard also issued a statement, pledging to strengthen protection for its fishermen and defend their rights and national sovereignty. Taiwan called on China not to use these rules as an excuse for actions that could undermine regional peace.
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China has increased its military activities near Taiwan, which it considers its own territory, and has also been in a growing stand-off with the Philippines in the South China Sea.
Responding to the concerns, the Chinese foreign ministry previously stated that the new rules aim to protect maritime order and assured that there was no need to worry if there was no illegal behavior by the individuals and bodies involved.
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