PCG finds 13 undocumented Chinese nationals on dredger in Bataan

On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) discovered thirteen undocumented Chinese nationals aboard a dredger vessel named Harvest 89 in Mariveles, Bataan.

The discovery was made during a pre-departure inspection for securing the Master's Declaration of Safe Departure (MDSD), after an agent of Harvest 89 notified the PCG about the ship’s planned departure to San Felipe, Zambales.

During the inspection, it was also found that the vessel had no permit to conduct dredging activities in Zambales and a uniform resembling China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) was discovered on board.

Commodore Jay Tarriela of the PCG stated that the Commandant has directed all Coast Guard stations covering Manila Bay to intensify inspections of dredger vessels, ensuring no undocumented Chinese nationals are aboard.

The PCG is collaborating with government agencies such as the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and Bureau of Immigration to investigate the situation and pursue legal actions against the undocumented workers and their employers.