The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has been actively conducting a search and rescue (SAR) operation since January 8, 2026, to locate a fisherman reported missing from Subic, Zambales. Yesterday, during the operation, the PCG vessel BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408) challenged the unauthorized presence of a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessel with bow number 627, which was illegally patrolling within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), approximately 42 nautical miles off the coast of Capones Island, Zambales. This afternoon, the PCG vessel also challenged the unlawful presence of China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 3106, located approximately 73 nautical miles off the coast of Capones Island, Zambales.
The PCG has issued a Notice to Mariners, advising transiting vessels to remain vigilant for the missing fisherman’s boat. The vessel is named JONAMAE, featuring a sky-blue hull, an overall length of 5.81 meters, and registration number ZAM-014-2618.
The PLA Navy vessel 627 is a Type 056A (Jiangdao II-class) corvette, optimized for anti-submarine warfare in littoral and green-water operations. It has a full-load displacement of approximately 1,500 tons and dimensions of about 90 meters in length and 11 meters in beam.
CCG vessel 3106 is a Zhaotim-class cutter with a displacement of approximately 1,764 tons and a length of around 100–110 meters. It is equipped with a 76mm rapid-fire naval gun, secondary 30mm close-in weapon systems, heavy machine guns, high-pressure water cannons, and a helicopter deck for medium helicopters such as the Z-9.
Despite adverse weather conditions and the illegal presence of maritime forces from the People’s Republic of China, the PCG remains steadfast in its commitment to locating the missing fisherman and ensuring the safety of Filipino mariners.
PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan emphasized: “Despite the size of the PCG vessels, our professional crew would always be willing to sacrifice their comfort and safety so that the Filipino fishermen are safe and secured.”
The PCG continues to conduct SAR operation and urges all vessels in the area to report any sightings of the missing boat to the nearest PCG station.
