The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) were subjected to a series of water cannon attacks and dangerous maneuvers by China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels this morning, 24 July 2026, while carrying out the Kadiwa ng Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda (KBBM) program in the vicinity waters of Bajo de Masinloc (BDM)—an initiative of the national government to deliver fuel subsidies and provisions to Filipino fishing boats, and to ensure the safety and security of Filipino fisherfolk exercising their legitimate rights in their traditional fishing ground.
At approximately 6:26 AM, CCG vessel 3107 fired its water cannon at BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408) from a distance of approximately 400 meters, while the PCG vessel was conducting a maritime patrol approximately 15 nautical miles northeast of BDM. Prior to the incident, MRRV-4408 was being shadowed by no fewer than six CCG vessels, alongside Chinese Maritime Militia vessels operating in the area.
At around 7:35 AM, CCG vessel 21581 began directing water cannon fire at the DA-BFAR vessel BRP Datu Paduhinog (MMOV 3017), which was en route to conduct its regular MCS mission approximately 12 nautical miles northeast of the shoal. CCG 21581 recklessly closed to a distance of approximately seven (7) meters off the port bow of BRP Datu Paduhinog—a maneuver that placed Filipino personnel at serious risk of collision. It is worth noting that the CCG vessel had deliberately switched off its Automatic Identification System (AIS), concealing its identity in violation of international regulations on safety of navigation.
At approximately 7:53 AM, CCG 21581 scored a direct water cannon hit on BRP Datu Paduhinog, followed by two more direct water cannon attacks at around 8:00 AM. Shortly thereafter, BRP Datu Paduhinog experienced a temporary loss of its satellite internet connectivity while transiting approximately 10 nautical miles northeast of BDM; connectivity was restored at 8:36 AM.
At around 8:09 AM, Chinese Maritime Militia vessel 00318 was monitored pulling a rope approx 100 meters dead astern of BRP Datu Sumakwel (MMOV 3019), an act that posed a hazard to the vessel’s safe navigation. At approximately 8:55 AM, CCG vessel 3303 likewise fired its water cannon at BRP Datu Cabaylo (MMOV 3001) from approximately 300 meters dead astern.
Despite these illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive (ICAD) actions, all PCG and DA-BFAR personnel are safe, and the vessels sustained their presence in the area in continued support of Filipino fisherfolk exercising their legitimate rights in their traditional fishing ground.
As of 9:30 AM, the PCG monitored a total of twenty-six (26) vessels in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc: three (3) PCG vessels, seven (7) DA-BFAR vessels, against twelve (12) CCG vessels and three (3) Chinese Maritime Militia vessels.
The PCG strongly condemns the dangerous and unprofessional actions of the China Coast Guard. Bajo de Masinloc is an integral part of the Philippine territory, and its surrounding waters form part of the country’s territorial sea and exclusive economic zone. The 2016 Arbitral Award has affirmed that BDM is a traditional fishing ground of Filipino fisherfolk, whose rights cannot be lawfully impeded by any foreign power.
The PCG, under the leadership of Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan and in coordination with the NTFWPS, remains steadfast in adhering to the guidance of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. that is to protect Filipino fisherfolk, uphold the rule of law, and defend the country’s sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea—without escalating tensions and in accordance with international law, particularly the UNCLOS.
