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Text of report in English by Philippine newspaper The Philippine Star web site on 27 March
The government is eyeing the adoption of a tougher policy, including a fishing ban, in the disputed Scarborough Shoal off Zambales amid reports of increasing Chinese presence in the area.
Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Lauro Baja Jr. said the preventive measures may also involve naval search and rescue exercises in the area to discourage poaching by Chinese fishermen.
Baja said foreign affairs officials are set to discuss the matter with the Cabinet Cluster E which is in charge of national security issues.
Authorities have reported that marine resources at the Scarborough Shoal, disputed by the Philippines and China, have been severely damaged by illegal fishing methods such as the use of dynamite and cyanide.
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