Alleged Chinese plane scares Filipino fishermen in Scarborough fly-by
MANILA, Philippines – China has allegedly conducted a fly-by over the disputed Scarborough Shoal although the type of aircraft could not be identified, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin told reporters Tuesday.
The aircraft buzzed over a Filipino fishing boat that was forced to leave the area, Gazmin said.
“Di makapangisda ang mga mangingisda. Pinapaalis [The fishermen could not fish. They are being forced to leave],” he told reporters.
As of posting time, a Filipino fishing vessel, M/Y Saranggani with six French nationals conducting archaeological survey and the Coast Guard’s BRP Edsa were still in the area.
China, meanwhile, maintained its two maritime surveillance vessels while a new fishing vessel has arrived in the disputed waters.
“Up to now the tension is still high,” Gazmin said.
Article continues after this advertisementHowever, he reiterated that the Philippines is still pushing for a peaceful means to settle the situation.
Article continues after this advertisement“We cannot afford a war,” he said.
“I’m sure China will not go to war over this,” he added.
