The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) together with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully conducted Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) flights using aircraft RP-1077, departing from Subic Airport. The mission focused on monitoring the Philippine Government vessels providing fuel subsidies and food packs to fishing boats in the Bajo de Masinloc (BDM) area.
Upon arrival at approximately 0940H this morning, the aircraft monitored four BFAR vessels and two PCG vessels, as well as around twenty-six fishing boats. Additionally, five China Coast Guard vessels and one People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA-N) vessel were observed in the vicinity.
Following a second sortie at 1228H, the aircraft confirmed a floating barrier at the southeastern entrance of BDM and detected an unidentified PLA-Naval Air Force helicopter nearby. The mission underscored BFAR and PCG’s commitment to maritime safety and support for Filipino fishermen.
COMMODORE JAY TARRIELA
PCG Spokesman for the West Philippine Sea
