MANILA PHILIPPINES – China Coast Guard Vessels Collide with Philippine Coast Guard Vessels due to its dangerous and Illegal Maneuvers on Monday.
The PCG vessels BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410) and BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411) encountered unlawful and agressive maneuvers from CCG while en route to Patag and Lawak Islands in the West Philippine Sea.
These dangerous manuevers resulted in collisions, causing structural damage to both PCG vessels.
National Task Force for WPS Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya 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, BRP Cape Engaño was subjected to aggressive maneuvers by CCGV-3104. .
This resulted in a collision with the starboard beam of the vessel, creating a hole on the deck
with an approximate diameter of 5 inches.
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.
The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea urges 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.