PCG deters Chinese vessel from Zambales coast

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel BRP Cabra is strategically maneuvering to deter the China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel CCG-3103 from approaching the Zambales coastline, pushing it to approximately 80-90 nautical miles offshore.

BRP Cabra replaced BRP Suluan in monitoring CCG-3103's illegal presence within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

PCG personnel are conducting hourly radio challenges to inform CCG-3103 of its violations of Philippine maritime law and international conventions.

The PCG spokesperson attributed the partial retreat of the Chinese vessel to the seamanship skills of the PCG personnel.

In a separate incident, four Chinese maritime militia vessels were seen shadowing two ships of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) near Pagasa Island.

The National Security Council (NSC) has called on China to withdraw its ships from the Philippine EEZ.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry defended the presence of CCG vessels, citing historical rights and compliance with international law.

The PCG remains committed to safeguarding maritime rights and enforcing international maritime laws without escalating tensions.