Navy ready for Chinese vessel groundings in WPS

The Philippine Navy (PN) has stated that contingency plans are ready for any scenario involving Chinese ships intentionally grounding themselves in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

PN spokesperson Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad emphasized that while they do not operate on speculation, preparedness is maintained for all eventualities.

Trinidad's statement comes after a Chinese Maritime Militia vessel ran aground near Pag-asa Island's Reef 1 on June 7 due to bad weather, but was able to free itself hours later.

Following the incident, the PN, National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) coordinated immediately.

The PCG dispatched a boat to assess the safety of those aboard the Chinese vessel and check for environmental damage, finding no immediate issues as the grounding was brief.