Pagasa Island, controlled by the Philippines and home to about 300 residents, is a focal point in the South China Sea dispute, surrounded by a significant presence of Chinese coastguard and navy ships. Despite its small size and limited resources, Pagasa’s civilian population and solid land strengthen the Philippines’ territorial claims, emphasized by recent military and infrastructure developments to support its inhabitants. Fishermen like Larry Hugo face increasing challenges due to Chinese intimidation, forcing them to reduce their fishing grounds and impacting local livelihoods.
