The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) discovered 13 undocumented Chinese nationals and a uniform resembling that of China's People’s Liberation Army (PLA) aboard a dredger in Mariveles, Bataan, on 26 November.

In a statement on Wednesday, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Commodore Jay Tarriela said the agent of Harvest 89 notified the PCG of the vessel's upcoming departure to its next port of call in San Felipe, Zambales, for dredging operations on Tuesday afternoon.

However, when the PCG attempted to board the vessel for a pre-departure inspection to secure the Master's Declaration of Safe Departure (MDSD), the agent denied entry, claiming that all necessary documentation was in order.

This prompted personnel from the Coast Guard Substation in Limay, Bataan, to perform a more detailed inspection.

Upon boarding, the PCG composite team discovered nine undocumented Chinese crew members, all without proper documentation.

Tarriela said further investigations revealed that the crew manifest included only eight Filipino crew members.

He added that four undocumented Chinese nationals were found hiding during a follow-up inspection.

“Additionally, a uniform resembling that of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) was found on board, raising significant concerns regarding the intentions of these undocumented individuals,” said Tarriela.

The PCG is currently coordinating with relevant government agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the presence of these Chinese nationals.

“Efforts are underway to pursue legal action and ensure the custody of these undocumented individuals,” he added.