Fishermen's group seeks probe of alleged Spratlys deal
By Jerome Aning
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 22:20:00 03/01/2008
Filed Under: NBN deal, Foreign affairs & international relations, Fishing Industry, Energy & Resources, Oil & Gas - Upstream activities
MILITANT fishermen asked the Senate on Saturday to investigate an alleged agreement between the Philippines and China that would allow Chinese oil companies to undertake offshore drilling within the country's exclusive economic zone, which is reserved for Filipino fishermen.
An official from the Department of Foreign Affairs was earlier reported to have raised questions about the deal signed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo with the Chinese government for the joint exploration of Philippine-claimed territories in the disputed Spratlys group of islands which is believed to be rich in mineral and aquatic resources.
"This is against the country's national sovereignty and patrimony, and would deny the Filipino fishermen their exclusive fishing rights,' said Fernando Hicap, chairman of the Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas.
Hicap said the exploration and eventual offshore oil drilling would affect the fishing grounds in and near the Spratlys that are frequented by Filipino fishermen.
He cited the Japanese firm's oil exploration activities between Cebu and Negros islands which have led to a leaner fish harvest and shrinking fishing grounds, which have affected the livelihood of Visayan fishermen.
Hicap said the Spratlys' waters are a breeding and spawning ground for many species of fish that eventually find their way into the country's waters. The area is also a route of migratory marine animals such as tuna, whales and dolphins.
Pamalakaya asked the Senate to undertake a separate and thorough investigation into the alleged sellout of the country's exclusive economic zone to China's offshore oil giants.
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