MAKATI CITY — The West Philippine Sea remains one of the Philippines’ most critical maritime regions, supplying an estimated 11 percent of the country’s marine captured fisheries and sustaining the livelihoods of roughly 300,000 fisherfolk. These waters are not only crucial for national food security but also for the economic and social stability of coastal communities.

However, the West Philippine Sea faces increasing environmental and security challenges. Unregulated activities, maritime intrusions, and unilateral measures such as fishing bans and the creation of so-called “nature reserves” have disrupted traditional fishing practices, degraded marine habitats, and placed additional pressure on local communities. Strengthening maritime governance while empowering those directly affected has emerged as a key strategy for sustainable management.

The conference “Eyes on the Sea: Community-Based Maritime Monitoring and Reporting in the West Philippine Sea,” held on 01 December 2025 at the Manila Polo Club in Makati City, brought together government officials, diplomats, academics, and fisherfolk leaders to explore how local communities can play a central role in safeguarding the country’s maritime territory. The event emphasized community-based monitoring, fisherfolk networks, and local ecological knowledge as integral to broader maritime security and governance.

Community-based vigilance and national security

Philippine maritime territory is roughly seven times larger than its land area, and panelists highlighted the necessity of proactive local participation in reporting and monitoring. Fisherfolk were recognized as frontline responders, providing daily observations on fishing activity, vessel movements, and ecological changes. These efforts complement satellite technology and naval operations, allowing authorities to respond more effectively to incursions and environmental risks.

As of the third quarter of 2025, a total of 78 incidents had been reported in the West Philippine Sea, illustrating the ongoing challenges faced by coastal communities. Satellite mapping revealed significant Chinese presence around strategic locations, including Bajo de Masinloc, Scarborough Shoal, Sabina Shoal, and Kagitingan Reef. Some reefs claimed by the Philippines show fully developed Chinese bases, while vessels are observed circling traditional fishing areas. Satellite tracking using Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) is limited by “dark vessels” turning off their transponders, making community reporting even more vital for real-time situational awareness.

Fisherfolk have faced harassment when attempting to access traditional fishing grounds and have experienced additional hardships from climate-related events and typhoons. Programs such as Fish Right have provided radio communication systems, support in processing official documentation, and satellite offices to ensure safer operations and better coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard. Panelists emphasized the importance of safety, security, and dignity for local communities, alongside strengthening their sense of ownership and role in maritime protection.

Strategic approaches to maritime security

Panel discussions outlined two primary approaches to securing the West Philippine Sea. The first involves diplomatic strategies: asserting Philippine rights through legal frameworks, international law, and coordinated multilateral engagement. This approach emphasizes partnerships, regional cooperation, and the use of scientific and satellite data to inform legal and diplomatic claims.

A contrasting approach, sometimes described as “escalate to deescalate,” focuses on tactical, resource-based responses to maritime challenges. Experts highlighted scenarios in which the temporary withdrawal of foreign vessels during typhoons could provide opportunities for Philippine authorities and fisherfolk to assert control over strategic areas such as Scarborough Shoal. These measures would require robust preparation, fast communication between fleets, and strategic positioning, acknowledging that the Philippines cannot match larger adversaries in direct confrontation but can act decisively in targeted, time-sensitive situations.

Panelists emphasized that both approaches require well-trained, empowered local communities, strong coordination with the Coast Guard, and the development of maritime capacity before material investments. Fisherfolk are considered active participants in enforcement and monitoring rather than armed personnel, providing immediate reporting, ecological observations, and consistent presence in Philippine waters.