Philippine Coast Guard resumes patrols at Escoda Shoal

The Philippine government continues to monitor Escoda Shoal with a Coast Guard vessel now patrolling the area following BRP Teresa Magbanua's withdrawal earlier this month.

NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya assured that monitoring remains unchanged and emphasized concern over potential illegal activities by China in the vicinity.

BRP Teresa Magbanua was pulled out from Escoda Shoal due to questionable seaworthiness, lack of supplies for the crew, and bad weather conditions.

The PCG has also been tracking a Chinese research vessel and its maritime militia escorts near Palawan while maintaining presence at Escoda Shoal with a replacement vessel.

Tensions remain high amid China's continued claims in the South China Sea, including the portion the Philippines refers to as the West Philippine Sea.