China blocks PH resupply mission at Escoda Shoal

The China Coast Guard (CCG) and People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) deployed a combined seven vessels, along with 36 Chinese maritime militia vessels, to block two Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels, BRP Cabra and BRP Cape Engaño, at Escoda Shoal.

The PCG vessels were on a humanitarian resupply mission for the BRP Teresa Magbanua, which has been on an extended patrol since April 16.

PCG spokesperson for the WPS, Commodore Jay Tarriela, stated that the Chinese deployed an excessive and unprofessional force, including two vessels previously involved in ramming PCG vessels, in an attempt to obstruct the lawful operation.

These actions forced the PCG to abort the resupply mission, leaving the crew of BRP Teresa Magbanua with critical provisions.

Tarriela asserted that China's actions blatantly disregard the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award, characterizing the event as harassment rather than a law enforcement measure.