BRP Teresa Magbanua asserts Philippine sovereign rights amid the continued illegal presence of a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel near the Zambales coastline, following directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Jay Tarriela, reported that CCG vessel 3301 was spotted approximately 105 to 110 nautical miles from Zambales, within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
In response, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel actively issued a radio challenge, asserting that the CCG’s presence violated the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
Despite rough sea conditions caused by high waves, BRP Teresa Magbanua remained steadfast in its mission, marking a week of continuous patrols in the area.
Commodore Tarriela emphasized the PCG’s commitment to protecting the country’s maritime rights, ensuring the safety of Filipino fishermen, upholding international law, and contributing to the de-escalation of tensions in the West Philippine Sea.