MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that an unidentified fighter jet closely tailed a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) aircraft during the maritime domain awareness (MDA) operation over Scarborough Shoal on Thursday, February 6, 2026.

According to the PCG, the BFAR aircraft was conducting a routine aerial patrol aimed at monitoring fishing activities and ensuring maritime safety within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone when it detected the presence of the unidentified military jet. The fighter aircraft reportedly followed the BFAR plane for several minutes while it was operating near the disputed shoal.

Despite the encounter, PCG officials said the BFAR aircraft was able to continue and complete its mission safely. No radio challenge or direct communication was reported between the two aircraft during the incident.

The PCG emphasized that the MDA flight was lawful, transparent, and part of regular efforts to safeguard the country’s maritime rights and support Filipino fisher folk in the West Philippine Sea. Authorities said the incident has been documented and will be included in official reports submitted to the appropriate government agencies.

Scarborough Shoal, located off the coast of Zambales, has long been a flashpoint in regional tensions due to overlapping maritime claims. The PCG reiterated its commitment to maintaining a consistent presence in the area while pursuing peaceful and rules-based approaches in addressing maritime concerns.

Officials added that coordination with partner agencies will continue to ensure the safety of air and maritime operations amid increasing activity in contested waters.

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