PCG monitors West Philippine Sea, warns against illegal Chinese presence

The Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) flagship multi-role response vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701), continues to maintain a firm presence near a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel in the contested waters of the West Philippine Sea.

The PCG vessel is positioned approximately 42.77 nautical miles southeast of Bajo De Masinloc and 103.15 nautical miles southwest of Capones Island, Zambales, closely monitoring CCG vessel 4305, which Philippine authorities say is illegally operating in the area.

PCG spokesperson for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said the BRP Teresa Magbanua has been actively issuing radio challenges to the Chinese vessel.

These challenges emphasize that its presence violates the 2016 Arbitral Award, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act.

“The ongoing radio challenges highlight the Philippines’ unwavering commitment to protecting its sovereign rights and jurisdiction within its exclusive economic zone,” Tarriela said in a statement Friday, reaffirming the country’s stance against what it calls China’s excessive maritime claims.

Tarriela noted the visible deployment of the BRP Teresa Magbanua also serves as a reassurance to Filipino fishermen of “the government’s support in allowing them to fish safely without fear of harassment or interference.”

“Through its professional, rules-based, and restrained maritime patrol—including persistent radio challenges—the Philippine Coast Guard complies with the directive of the President to uphold maritime law, safeguard national sovereignty, and promote peace and stability in the West Philippine Sea without escalation,” he added.

Tarriela reiterated that the Philippines will continue its vigilant maritime presence and maintain open lines of communication to prevent incidents at sea, stressing that all actions are conducted in accordance with international law.