The West Philippine Sea (WPS) is one of the Philippines’ most important maritime areas. It supplies about 11 percent of the country’s marine catch and supports the livelihoods of around 300,000 fisherfolk. These waters are essential not only for food security but also for the economic and social stability of many coastal communities.

But the situation in the West Philippine Sea is becoming more challenging. Environmental damage, unregulated activities, maritime intrusions, and unilateral actions — like sudden fishing bans and the creation of so-called “nature reserves” — have disrupted long-standing fishing practices and put even more pressure on already vulnerable communities.

Because of this, strengthening maritime governance and empowering the people directly affected has become crucial for sustainable management.

This was the focus of the conference “Eyes on the Sea: Community-Based Maritime Monitoring and Reporting in the West Philippine Sea,” held on 1 December at the Manila Polo Club in Makati City.

Government officials, diplomats, academics, and fisherfolk leaders came together to talk about how local communities can play a central role in protecting the country’s maritime territory. The discussions emphasized community-based monitoring, fisherfolk networks, and the value of local ecological knowledge as key elements of effective maritime security and governance.

Professor Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, president of the Stratbase Institute, noted that 78 incidents were reported in the West Philippine Sea as of the third quarter of 2025.

Community-based vigilance and national security

The Philippines’ maritime territory is about seven times larger than its land area, so panelists stressed how vital local participation is in monitoring what’s happening in coastal waters. Fisherfolk were acknowledged as the first to see changes on the ground — whether it’s unusual vessel movements, new fishing activity, or shifts in marine conditions. Their real-time observations complement satellite data and Coast Guard operations, giving authorities a fuller picture of what’s happening at sea.

By the third quarter of 2025, the 78 reported incidents showed how persistent these challenges are. Satellite mapping also revealed significant Chinese activity around areas like Bajo de Masinloc, Scarborough Shoal, Sabina Shoal and Kagitingan Reef. Some reefs claimed by the Philippines now host fully developed Chinese bases, while vessels continue to circle traditional Filipino fishing grounds. Although Automatic Identification System (AIS) tracking helps monitor vessels, many “dark vessels” simply switch off their transponders — making community reporting even more important.

Fisherfolk have not only dealt with harassment while trying to access their traditional fishing grounds, but they’ve also had to contend with the impacts of climate-related events and strong typhoons.

Programs like Fish Right have helped by providing radio systems, assisting with official documentation, and setting up satellite offices to improve coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard.

Panelists highlighted that beyond security, what local communities need most is safety, dignity, and a sense of ownership over the waters they depend on.

Strategic approaches to maritime security

Panelists discussed two key strategies for securing the West Philippine Sea.

The first is the diplomatic route — asserting Philippine rights through international law, partnerships, and coordinated regional responses. This approach relies heavily on data, scientific evidence and strong alliances.

The second approach, sometimes described as “escalate to deescalate,” focuses on tactical, resource-driven actions. For example, the temporary withdrawal of foreign vessels during typhoons could create openings for Philippine authorities and fisherfolk to re-establish presence in key areas like Scarborough Shoal.