MindanaoToday.com | 2 PCG ships damaged in latest Chinese harassment in WPS
By: Priam Nepomuceno
MANILA – The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) announced that two Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels were damaged after being subjected to “unlawful and aggressive maneuvers” by China Coast Guard (CCG) ships while en route to Patag and Lawak Islands early Monday.
In a statement, NTF-WPS spokesperson Jonathan Malaya identified the damaged PCG ships as the BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410) and BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411).
These PCG ships were tasked to resupply personnel deployed in Patag and Lawak Islands, he added.
“These dangerous maneuvers resulted in collisions, causing structural damage to both PCG vessels,” he added.
Malaya, who is also National Security Council assistant director general, said the first incident took place at 3:24 a.m. as the BRP Cape Engaño was navigating about 23.01 nautical miles southeast of Escoda Shoal.
At this point, the Filipino ship was subjected to aggressive maneuvers by CCGV-3104, resulting in a collision with the starboard beam of the vessel, creating a hole in the deck with an approximate diameter of five inches.
The second incident took place at 3:40 a.m. and involved the BRP Bagacay, which was then approximately 21.3 nautical miles southeast of Escoda Shoal.
This incident was more serious as the PCG vessel 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.
Meanwhile, Malaya said the task force is calling for 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.
The incident followed the Aug. 8 flare-dropping of Chinese jet fighters near the flight path of a Philippine Air Force NC-212i aircraft conducting a routine maritime patrol over Bajo de Masinloc. (PNA)
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