đź“·GMA Network
DAYS after congressmen paid a visit in Masinloc to check on the situation of local fishermen, now comes reports about a swarming fleet of Vietnamese fishermen at the Bajo de Masinloc.
Interestingly though, the hostile Chinese Coast Guard didn’t shoo them away unlike what they’ve been doing to Filipino fishermen .
According to local fshing boat operator Genevieve Buencamino, the Vietnamese fishermen seemed confident that they won’t be bullied at the China-controlled shoal in what she believe could be an offshoot of an earlier permission that was granted by the Chonese Coast Guards in exchange of gettimg a share in the fish haul.
Buencamino said that the Chinese Coast Guards simply ignored the presence of the Vietnamese fishermen onboard motorized wooden boats which had superlights — a special type of lamp used to attract fish and members of their food chain to specific areas so they can easily be harvested.
The Viets are also accused of surrounding the reef with fine nets too.
Ironically, Filipino fishermen have been dsaling with the horrible Chinese treatment on a day-to-day basis — “Either we’re chased or our fish haul seized.”
Buemcamino admits puzzled over the way China treats them in high seas while giving due recognition on the plight of Vietnamese fishermen.
Jeoffrey Elad, chairman of the Masinloc Tropical Fish Gatherer’s Association, for his part expressed concerns over the plan of China to implement beginning June 15 its regulation to arrest foreigners and vessels found “trespassing” into what it claims as its territorial seas. Those arrested will be detained for up to 60 days without trial. (ANGEL F. JOSE)
