Since last night, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has directed the Multi Role Response Vessel (MRRV-4409), BRP Cabra, off the coast of Zambales to challenge the presence of a China Coast Guard vessel located approximately 75.9 nautical miles from Palauig Point. This operation highlights the PCG’s commitment to asserting Philippine sovereign rights within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the 2016 Arbitral Award, and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act.
Despite facing challenging sea conditions with wave heights ranging from 8 to 10 feet, the 44-meter vessel continuously engaged the China Coast Guard 3105, emphasizing its lack of legal authority to patrol within Philippine waters but did not receive any response.
In a separate incident later that day, while on patrol, BRP Cabra received a distress call from the Filipino fishing boat, FFB John John, which was experiencing engine trouble about 40.35 nautical miles southeast of Bajo De Masinloc. Swiftly responding to the situation, the crew of BRP Cabra navigated through challenging weather conditions to reach the distressed vessel. At 1 PM, BRP Cabra successfully arrived at the location of the fishing boat and is now towing it safely back to Subic Port, Zambales.
This maritime patrol operation highlights the unwavering dedication of the Philippine Coast Guard to safeguard national maritime interests and ensure the safety of Filipino fishermen, even in adverse weather conditions. The actions of BRP Cabra and its crew reflect the commitment of the PCG to uphold the directive of the President, reinforcing the Philippines’ rights in the West Philippine Sea.
