Nearly 50 fisherfolk at Bajo de Masinloc received free crude oil from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, according to a Wednesday report.

The mission was carried out under the Kadiwa ng Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda (KBBM) program using M/V Mamalakaya and while the BRP Malapascua and PCG Islander 251 aircraft ensured the fisherfolks’ and BFAR vessel’s safety during the operation.

According to PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) RAdm. Jay Tarriela, the operation went smoothly, although the PCG noted and continues to monitor the presence of Chinese Coast Guard (CCG), Chinese Navy, and Chinese research vessels surrounding the shoal.

The fisherfolk thanked the PCG and BFAR for extending aid amid the rising cost of fuel to keep their bancas running.

“Ako po ay nagpapasalamat sa ating mahal na Pangulong Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos… at sa ating kagalang-galang na Philippine Coast Guard. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas,” said one fisherman.

Watch the whole report below.