PHILIPPINES EXPRESSES GRAVE CONCERN OVER PLACING AT RISK THE LIVES OF FILIPINO FISHERMEN AND SINKING OF FISHING BOATS

Press Release No.038-03
31 January 2003

PHILIPPINES EXPRESSES GRAVE CONCERN OVER PLACING AT RISK THE LIVES OF FILIPINO FISHERMEN AND SINKING OF FISHING BOATS

Foreign Affairs Secretary Blas F. Ople today summoned Indonesia Charge d' Affaires Alexander Laturiuw to express the grave concern of the Philippines over the arrest and detention of 49 Filipino fishermen and the sinking of their four fishing boats.

"I particularly emphasized our displeasure and grave concern over the excessive use of force employed by the Indonesian navy. Our fishermen do not present any danger to Indonesia, nor they involved in smuggling or trafficking. We have been able to deal with similar situations in the past without the use of deadly force," Secretary Ople said after conveying the concerns of the Philippines to the Indonesian diplomat.

Secretary Ople asked for the assurances of the Indonesian government that the 49 Filipino fishermen will be treated humanely. Mr. Laturiuw assured Secretary Ople that, given the close ties between the Philippines and Indonesia, the Indonesian government will ensure the safety and welfare of the Filipino fishermen.

"Mr Laturiuw assured me that the Indonesian government will do all it can to return our fishermen. I emphasized the importance of their immediate return. We can discuss the issue of reparation for the boats at a later time," Secretary Ople said. "He also expressed his deep regret and shock over the incident and that he hopes that this incident will not be repeated," Secretary Ople added.

"I have asked the Indonesian government to give an account of the incident and Mr. Laturiuw promised to give it shortly," Secretary Ople said.

Philippine consular officials have visited the 49 Filipinos and have reported that they are in good condition.

"I spoke to Philippine Ambassador Rafael Seguis immediately after the incident and instructed him to proceed to Bitung to head our consular team, drawing from our personnel from the Philippine Embassy in Indonesia as well as our Philippine Consulate General in Manado (40 miles from Bitung) to ensure the safety and welfare of our countrymen" Secretary Ople said.

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