The BRP Datu Magat Salamat of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) sustained an estimated P1.4 million in damage after it was allegedly rammed by a China Coast Guard vessel in the West Philippine Sea on 18 September, civic leader Dr. Jose Goitia said.

The incident drew fresh condemnation, with New Zealand becoming the latest country to voice concern over what it described as dangerous behavior in the South China Sea.

“New Zealand is seriously concerned about reported dangerous behavior in the South China Sea on 18 September. Contact between vessels endangers lives at sea and risks increasing tensions. New Zealand firmly calls for peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with UNCLOS,” its embassy said Monday.

According to Goitia, the initial repair estimate covers damage to the BFAR vessel’s railings, metal supports and deck equipment. The vessel was assisting Filipino fishermen when China Coast Guard vessel CCG-21585 struck it about 54 nautical miles off Palawan.

The Philippine Coast Guard said the collision was deliberate, while China disputed Manila’s account.

The Department of Foreign Affairs condemned the incident, saying there was no justification for the China Coast Guard’s actions and that the collision endangered the civilian crew.

At risk

Goitia, who heads several civic groups, said the incident was part of a broader pattern of pressure on Philippine vessels operating in the country’s maritime domain.

“The repair cost is only the immediate consequence,” Goitia told the DAILY TRIBUNE. “What should concern every Filipino is that our people are being put at risk simply for exercising lawful rights in our own waters.”

He cited the presence of a Chinese floating platform at Bajo de Masinloc in June, which Philippine authorities later confirmed had been removed following a diplomatic protest.

Goitia also raised concerns over reports of a longer-term Chinese strategy involving a 15-year horizon and possible additional military infrastructure.