SUBIC, ZAMBALES — Authorities have implemented temporary fishing and navigation restrictions in the waters off San Felipe, Zambales, following the arrival of a Chinese-flagged vessel tasked with repairing a critical submarine fiber-optic cable.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed on Friday, February 6, 2026, that the offshore supply vessel Feng Hua 21 is currently operating in Philippine territorial waters under a special permit from the Maritime Industry Authority.
The Luzon Festoon Project The vessel, operated by FH Offshore Engineering, is carrying out work for the Luzon Festoon Cable Repair and Maintenance Project.
- Areas Affected: While currently focused on Barangay Sto. Niño in San Felipe, the project will also extend to coastal areas in Dasol (Pangasinan), Luna (La Union), and Nasugbu (Batangas).
- Duration: Maintenance activities are expected to continue until March 27, 2026.
- Objective: The fiber-optic infrastructure is a major telecommunications project designed to enhance digital connectivity across Luzon by linking multiple provincial landing sites.
Safety Restrictions Cmdr. Euphraim Jayson Diciano, head of PCG Zambales, explained that the ban on fishing and beach activities around Barangay Sto. Niño is a necessary safety measure. “There are cables in the area that vessels might get entangled in. All vessels plying the area are reminded to exercise caution,” he said.
Local Opposition The restrictions have met sharp criticism from the fisherfolk group Pamalakaya, which described the move as a threat to local livelihoods.
- Pattern of Disruption: Ronnel Arambulo, vice chair of Pamalakaya, argued that the presence of the Chinese vessel follows a troubling pattern of foreign ships disrupting Zambales fishing grounds.
- Legal Challenge: Arambulo questioned the provincial government’s authority to impose the restrictions without a formal ordinance, stating the group intends to contest the “unacceptable” measures.
Environmental Context The presence of Chinese vessels in Zambales has long been a point of contention for local communities. Last year, the provincial government briefly suspended dredging activities in municipal waters following complaints about the environmental impact of 17 Chinese dredging ships. While that ban was eventually lifted, tensions remain high among residents who feel their marine resources are being damaged by prolonged foreign offshore operations.