Amid China's threat to penalize foreign fishermen in what it claims is its territory, Malacañang said that Filipino fishermen can go to Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal, but with “caution.” Speaking to reporters, presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said “safeguards” are in place to ensure the safety of Filipino fishermen in the disputed West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). “They can proceed but they’re also advised to proceed with caution,” Abella said. Panatag Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, had been a traditional fishing ground for fishermen from Luzon. Abella said Scarborough Shoal is not off-limits to fishermen, but only “artisanal” fishing is allowed.

Valente, C. S., Delizo, M. J. T., & Panti, L. T. (2016, August 04). Filipinos can fish in Panatag. The Manila Times, pp. A1, A8.