The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) challenged the presence of a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel situated approximately 76 nautical miles off Palauig Point, Zambales, an area within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
In a statement posted on Sunday, PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela revealed that the Multi-Role Response Vessel (MRRV-4409) BRP Cabra was deployed Saturday evening to assert the country’s territorial rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“Despite facing challenging sea conditions with wave heights ranging from 8 to 10 feet, the 44-meter vessel continuously engaged the China Coast Guard 3105, emphasizing its lack of legal authority to patrol within Philippine waters but did not receive any response,” the post read.
The Philippines has long disputed China’s extensive claims in the West Philippine Sea.
In 2013, Manila initiated legal action, culminating in a 2016 international tribunal ruling that invalidated Beijing’s claims based on its nine-dash line. Despite this, China has rejected the ruling and continues to assert its position, emphasizing “friendly consultation” in addressing the issue.
Under the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the Philippines has lodged over 150 diplomatic protests against China concerning territorial disputes in the region.
Additionally, the BRP Cabra responded to a distress call from the Filipino fishing vessel FFB John John, which experienced engine trouble approximately 40.35 nautical miles southeast of Bajo de Masinloc. The PCG crew successfully towed the vessel back to Subic Port, Zambales.
“The actions of BRP Cabra and its crew reflect the commitment of the PCG to uphold the directive of the President, reinforcing the Philippines’ rights in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.
