Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels sustained “structural damage” after its collision early Monday with its counterparts in China in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the National Task Force for WPS said in a statement.
NTF-WPS Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya called the incident unlawful and aggressive as Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels made dangerous maneuvers towards Manila’s ships while enroute to Patag and Lawak Islands.
Ships involved in the incident were PCG’s BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410), BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411) and CCG Vessels 3104 and 21551.
“These dangerous maneuvers resulted in collisions, causing structural damage to both PCG vessels,” Malaya said.
The Task Force shared that BRP Cape Engaño was navigating 23.01 nautical miles southeast of Escoda Shoal when CCG’s 3104 made the aggressive maneuvers resulting in a collision with the starboard beam of the vessel, creating a hole on the deck with an approximate diameter of 5 inches.
BRP Bagacay was approximately 21.3 nautical miles southeast of Escoda Shoal when it was rammed twice on both her port and starboard sides by CCGV 21551, leading to minor structural damage.
“Despite these incidents, both PCG vessels remain committed to and shall proceed with their mission of delivering essential supplies to personnel stationed on Patag and Lawak Islands. The PCG stands firm in its responsibility to ensure the safety and security of our maritime domain while addressing any threats to our national interests,“ Malaya said.
The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea meanwhile urges restraint and adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and other relevant international laws to prevent further escalations and ensure the safety of all vessels operating in the region.
