PCG BRP Cabra patrols off Zambales despite Chinese vessel's presence

The Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) BRP Cabra maintained its position against a larger Chinese Coast Guard vessel off the coast of Zambales on Saturday, March 8.

Despite rough sea conditions with waves up to five meters high, the 44-meter BRP Cabra successfully kept the CCG ship '3105', which is over 130 meters long, at a distance of more than 95 nautical miles from shore.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan reiterated that PCG vessels remain deployed in the West Philippine Sea to prevent China from altering the status quo and normalizing its unlawful presence within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The PCG cited international law violations by China's presence, including breaches of UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award, which invalidated China's sweeping nine-dash line claim to the South China Sea.

Commodore Jay Tarriela highlighted President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s commitment to ensuring that not a square inch of Philippine territory is surrendered to foreign powers.

Beijing has refused to recognize the ruling and continues expanding its presence, conducting island-building activities, and sending coast guard vessels to the West Philippine Sea, leading to frequent confrontations with the PCG and other Philippine vessels.