The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has once again demonstrated its steadfast commitment to defending the country’s maritime sovereignty amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea. On April 7, 2025, the PCG vessel BRP Cabra encountered aggressive maneuvers from China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels CCG-3302 and CCG-21612. CCG-3302 made repeated attempts to ram the aft section of the PCG vessel, prompting the deployment of the smaller and faster CCG-21612 to intensify the harassment.
Despite these coercive actions, the crew of 𝑩𝑹𝑷 𝑪𝒂𝒃𝒓𝒂 responded with professionalism and restraint. Relying on their superior seamanship and the vessel’s enhanced maneuverability, PCG personnel successfully evaded the dangerous maneuvers while continuing to shadow and challenge the presence of CCG-3302 in Philippine waters. Their conduct reflects the PCG’s unwavering discipline and tactical competence in the face of repeated provocations.
Under the leadership of PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan and in alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive, the PCG remains dedicated to protecting the nation’s maritime interests without escalating tensions. This incident highlights the Coast Guard’s role as a crucial frontliner in upholding Philippine sovereignty and asserting a lawful presence in the West Philippine Sea.
