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PCG and BFAR Stand Firm Against Chinese Bullying and Aggressive Actions in Pag-asa The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) have reaffirmed their strong commitment to protecting Filipino fishermen in the Kalayaan Island Group, vowing to remain undeterred despite aggressive harassment and direct threats from Chinese vessels in the territorial waters of Pag-asa Island. This morning, while three BFAR vessels, including the BRP Datu Pagbuaya, were safely anchored in the territorial waters of Pag-asa Island to provide protection for Filipino fishermen as part of the “Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda” (KBBM), they faced dangerous and provocative maneuvers from the China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese Maritime Militia vessels. Around 8:15 a.m., the Chinese maritime forces approached dangerously close, activating their water cannons as a clear threat against the BFAR vessels. The situation escalated at approximately 9:15 a.m. when CCG vessel with bow number 21559 fired its water cannon directly at the BRP Datu Pagbuaya, hitting the vessel. Just three minutes later, at 9:18 a.m., the same CCG vessel deliberately rammed the stern of the BRP Datu Pagbuaya, causing minor structural damage but no injuries to the crew. Despite these bullying tactics and aggressive actions, the PCG and BFAR remain resolute. We will not be intimidated or driven away, as our presence in the Kalayaan Island Group is crucial for protecting the rights and livelihoods of Filipino fishermen. PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan echoed this determination, stating, "The harassment we faced today only strengthens our resolve. Filipino fisherfolk depend on these waters, and neither water cannons nor ramming will deter us from fulfilling our commitment to President Ferdinand Marcos to not surrender a square inch of our territory to any foreign power."