The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday reported another ramming incident with a Chinese vessel in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
PCG Spokesperson for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said BRP Teresa Magbanua was rammed three times by the foreign vessel despite no provocation from its side.
“This afternoon, the Chinese Coast Guard vessel deliberately rammed and collided with the BRP Teresa Magbanua three times, despite no provocation from the Philippine Coast Guard,” Tarriela said.
WPS monitor also on Saturday said that the said PCG vessel was “apparently on the move” with unknown speed.
Maritime security expert Ray Powell on X said that China’s militia ships upon its movement swarmed in the said vessels.
“Activity at Sabina Shoal today, with #Philippines Coast Guard ship–anchored since mid-April–apparently on the move and #China militia ships swarming around her. China Coast Guard ships likely present but “dark” on AIS. China has been demanding Philippine ship’s withdrawal,” said maritime security expert Ray Powell on X.
China on the other hand said in a statement that BRP Magbanua “deliberately collided” with its ship numbered 5205.
CCG Spokesperson Liu Dejun said this collision was entirely the responsibility of the Philippines.
They also took measures such as warning issues and tailing the BRP Magbanua.
The BRP Teresa Magbanua has been stationed in Escoda Shoal, 140 kilometers off Palawan, since April due to reports of Chinese reclamation activities.
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