The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), through its Western Command (WESCOM), on Friday reported that the Philippine Navy vessel BRP Benguet (LS-507) successfully avoided a potential collision following a dangerous maneuver by a People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) missile frigate near Pag-asa Island on 25 March.

WESCOM said BRP Benguet was conducting lawful maritime operations when it encountered the Chinese vessel, identified as PLAN 532, which “executed an unsafe and unprofessional maneuver” by closing in and passing at a dangerously close distance.

The AFP said such actions are provocative and constitute a clear violation of the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).

Despite the incident, the Philippine Navy ship’s measured and decisive actions prevented escalation while ensuring the safety of all personnel on board.

WESCOM called on the PLA Navy to adhere to established international rules and norms to avoid similar incidents at sea.

It added that the command will continue to carry out lawful maritime operations with professionalism and resolve in exercising the country’s sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea.