National security and diplomatic leaders have raised the alarm over the rising threats confronting Filipino fisherfolk, emphasizing the critical role of local communities in defending the country’s maritime rights.
Presidential Assistant for Maritime Concerns Secretary Andres Centino warned of the “heightened complexity in the maritime environment,” citing “incursions into our waters, coercive actions, and illegal activities by external actors” that continue to challenge Philippine sovereignty.
Despite these threats, Centino stressed that Filipino communities are ready to safeguard the nation’s waters. Many fisherfolk “affirmed their willingness to cooperate or to help government by reporting maritime incidents and suspicious activities.” He also acknowledged the real dangers they face: “Many hesitated to file reports due to legitimate concerns about possible retaliation and harassment,” calling for targeted policies, stronger safeguards, and sustained engagement to build trust.
Stratbase Institute President Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit underscored that the Philippines’ fight for maritime rights is rooted not only in sovereignty but also in environmental protection. He noted that China’s island-building activities have caused “devastating and long-lasting damage to the marine environment,” a key factor behind the 2016 arbitral victory.
Manhit also raised concern about growing disinformation around maritime issues. While public support for defending Philippine waters remains strong, he noted “an uptick in the number of disengagement” in recent years. Still, 72% of Filipinos support government efforts to protect the country’s territory, marine resources, and the rights of fishing communities, highlighting the importance of policies that “put a human face” on national security.
Regional Partners Highlight Community-Based Maritime Security
Diplomatic leaders from Australia, Vietnam, and New Zealand emphasized that community-centered maritime governance is increasingly shaping regional security cooperation.
Australian Ambassador Mark Innes-Brown highlighted how communities become effective first responders when equipped with tools and training. He cited Australia’s support for frontline Philippine maritime agencies, including the Coast Guard.
“In 2024, Australia is proud to donate four watermakers to provide PCG vessels with potable water, allowing for extended mission times during deployment at sea,” he said. Australia also donated high-frequency radios to Palawan units, enhancing their ability to respond to maritime incidents.
Vietnamese Ambassador Lai Thai Binh underscored that coastal communities are central to Vietnam’s own maritime strategy, noting that community-based monitoring aligns closely with the Philippines’ approach.
Vietnam’s Integrated Coastal Management Program empowers local communities, fish ports, and village networks to monitor resources and report illegal activities. Through partnerships, communities are trained on marine debris assessment and real-time reporting using apps and cameras. “Our fish port networks in southern provinces have been instrumental in limiting encroachment, contributing to national databases that inform policy decisions,” he added.
New Zealand Ambassador Catherine McIntosh echoed the importance of community capacity building, citing programs in maritime safety, education for artisanal fishers, domestic vessel standards, and training in search and rescue and pollution response.
Philippine Coast Guard: Fisherfolk as Frontline Guardians
Philippine Coast Guard Commandant ADM Ronnie Gil Gavan explained how the PCG institutionalized community participation in maritime safety and national security.
“Our mission is to engage all of our stakeholders in the coastal communities and beyond,” he said. “The program allows us not only to provide support to our fishermen but to leverage their presence at sea as our first-line sources of information.”
Gavan emphasized that trust is the backbone of an effective maritime monitoring system.
“The Philippine Coast Guard has been trying to be one of the significant instruments of diplomacy of the country. We project presence, strengthen alliances, and build trust. Information should be seamless if we trust each other, not only in our coastal communities but across the region,” he said.