Chinese warship drills prompt PCG, fishermen evacuation near Zambales

A Chinese warship broadcasted a live fire exercise warning in waters near Zambales on September 16, prompting Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels and Filipino fishermen to evacuate the area.

The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessel, identified by bow number 525, issued the warning around 8:30 a.m., covering the location of PCG ships BRP Cabra and BRP Gabriela Silang, as well as numerous Filipino fishing boats.

Following the announcement, the PCG advised the fishermen to leave the danger zone, and its vessels repositioned closer to Scarborough Shoal.

However, the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) also began driving away Filipino fishermen at 7 a.m. and used water cannons starting 8:33 a.m.

The CCG vessels then employed dangerous maneuvers at 8:57 a.m., leading to a collision between CCG vessels 5201 and 21562 and BFAR's BRP Datu Gumbay Piang at 9:14 a.m., injuring one Filipino crew member and damaging the BFAR vessel.

PCG Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Jay Tarriela, stated that China does not have the right to unilaterally announce live fire exercises within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.