Fishermen in Zambales province, Philippines, are raising concerns over the financial hardships caused by repeated maritime closures due to joint military exercises with the United States. The latest restrictions, scheduled from May 28 to May 30, will force thousands of fishers to remain ashore, exacerbating their already precarious financial situation. Leonardo Cuaresma, president of the New Masinloc Fishermen Association, highlighted that the effects of these military drills extend beyond the official closure period, as the disturbances scare away fish and damage coral reefs. He urged the government to provide immediate financial assistance and implement long-term economic safety nets to support fishers during such disruptions. This closure follows a series of previous restrictions that have already limited fishing opportunities during the peak season. Fernando Hicap, national chair of the fisherfolk federation Pamalakaya, criticized both local and national authorities for allowing these back-to-back closures, stating that no compensation can replace the immediate loss of income from a day without fishing. As the situation develops, local communities continue to advocate for their livelihoods amid ongoing military activities.