TACLOBAN CITY– Filipino fishermen and church leaders have expressed alarm over the continued recovery of suspected Chinese-deployed underwater surveillance drones in Philippine waters.
“We’re deeply concerned. Since they [Chinese forces] arrived, we’ve been blocked from fishing in our own waters,” said Leonardo Cuaresma, a fisherfolk leader in Zambales, who also noted the disappearance of giant clams in the area.
From 2022 to 2024, five undersea drones were recovered in strategic coastal provinces, including Ilocos Norte, Zambales, Cagayan, Misamis Oriental, and Masbate. According to Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, forensic analysis of three devices revealed Chinese components and links to a state-owned defense firm.
“These drones are capable of collecting and transmitting data useful for undersea warfare,” Trinidad said, citing their ability to map underwater terrain.
Community organizers and the Catholic Church also raised concerns over national security and the threat to local livelihoods.
“If China can intimidate the Philippine Coast Guard, what more ordinary fishermen?” said Anthony John Jumauay of Uswag-Este Katarungan in Eastern Samar.
Caritas Philippines called on the government to show political will and protect Filipino fishing communities. “Our resources must benefit our people,” said Caritas’ ecology head, Jing Rey Henderson.
The Chinese Embassy has not issued a comment as of press time.
The Navy urged fishermen to stay alert and report suspicious devices as the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea continues to escalate.
(RONALD O. REYES)
