After formally asking permission from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), senatorial candidates of the opposition Otso Diretso alliance should now find an “appropriate” vessel that would take them to the disputed Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal. Otso Diretso senatorial bet Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano formally sent a letter to PCG commandant Admiral Elson Hermogino last April 13, seeking permission to board a fishing boat that would take them to Panatag, which is currently being guarded by the Chinese coast guard – but it is not the only requirement in order for them to complete the voyage. Last week, Otso Diretso senatorial candidates Alejano, former solicitor general Florin Hilbay, Marawi civic leader Samira Gutoc and human rights lawyer Chel Diokno attempted to go to Panatag Shoal but they were reportedly prevented by the PCG from traveling to the disputed area.

Macairan, E., & Pareño, R. (2019, April 17). Otso bets can't use fishing boat to reach Panatag. The Philippine Star, p. 10.