Lieutenant Commander Efren Duran Jr., commanding officer of the BRP Teresa Magbanua, has apologized to Philippine Coast Guard Palawan District Commander Captain Dennis Labay for his decision to leave Escoda Shoal and return to Palawan.
BRP Teresa Magbanua had been stationed at the shoal for nearly five months to safeguard Philippine waters.
However, Duran explained that the decision was made due to the deteriorating health of the ship’s crew, who were suffering from a lack of potable water and food supplies.
Duran delivered his report to the PCG, led by Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan. Gavan flew from Manila to Palawan to personally welcome the returning crew.
Despite the withdrawal, Admiral Gavan emphasized that the mission of BRP Teresa Magbanua and its 60 personnel was still a success.
He also clarified that this decision was not in response to China’s demands for the Philippines to vacate the area.
Gavan reiterated that the Philippines will not relinquish its sovereignty and territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea.