The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday continued to challenge the presence of Chinese Coast Guard vessel CCG-3304 off Zambales as it was told to ‘maintain a safe distance’ from Philippine fishing vessels.
“This morning, BRP Magbanua diligently ensured the protection of Filipino fishing boats in its patrol area, while also distributing food packs to support local fishermen,” PCG said in a statement.
“The PCG has firmly communicated to CCG-3304 the necessity of maintaining a safe distance from Filipino fishing boats, stressing that its presence poses a significant threat to the safety of both the fishermen and their vessels,” PCG said in a statement,” added the PCG.
This comes two days after the PCG said that it was able to push a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel away from the coast of Zambales.
Aside from CCG 3304, the PCG has been monitoring three more Chinese vessels in the area:
- CCG-5901 or the monster ship – 103.63 NM away from the Zambales coast
- CCG-3502 – 115.22 NM away
- CCG-3103 – 134.10 NM away
BRP Teresa Magbanua was able to push a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel away from the coast of Zambales on Thursday, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). ????: PCG @gmanews pic.twitter.com/kjmFIc9qPw
— Joviland Rita (@jovilandxrita) January 31, 2025
PCG also said that BRP Magbanua continues to radio Chinese ships to reinforce that “Filipino nationals have the legal right to fish in this area.”
“The PCG reminded the Chinese Coast Guard that it lacks any legal authority to patrol within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone and has instructed the vessel to vacate the area immediately,” said the PCG.
“The Philippine Coast Guard remains steadfast in its commitment to protect the rights and welfare of Filipino fishermen and ensure the security of the nation’s Exclusive Economic Zone, all while adhering to international law and avoiding provocative actions,” it added.
Tensions continue as Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, a conduit for more than $3 trillion of annual shipborne commerce, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.
In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines over China’s claims in the South China Sea, saying that it had “no legal basis.”
—VAL, GMA Integrated News
