The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has protested the shadowing, blocking, dangerous maneuver and radio challenges by the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels conducting legitimate maritime patrols and training exercises in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc on April 24 to 25, 2021. It has also protested the incessant, illegal, prolonged, and increasing presence of Chinese fishing vessels and maritime militia vessels in Philippine maritime zones. In a statement issued Monday, May 3, 2021, DFA stressed that China has no law enforcement rights in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), which is part of the Spratly Islands, and Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in the West Philippine Sea.

PH protest Chinese Coast Guard's actions. (2021, May 4). SunStar Davao, p. 5.