The Philippine government is determined to file a protest if elements of the Chinese Coast Guards are found to be really driving away Filipino fishermen from Panatag Shoal. Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said evidence must be shown the fishermen were supposedly still being harassed in the country’s territorial waters before the government lodges a protest. Panelo was reacting to a short documentary released by senatorial candidate Neri Colmenares on the alleged harassment of local fishermen by Chinese coast guard personnel, and how it has affected their livelihood in the West Philippine Sea.

Kabiling, G. D. (2019, March 26). PH to protest if Chinese coast guards drive away Pinoy fishermen - Panelo. Manila Bulletin, p. 4.