Philippines, China Coast Guard ships in new standoff in Sabina Shoal
A Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship and three Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels figured in a new standoff in Sabina Shoal, in the West Philippine Sea, the PCG said Wednesday, Jan. 25.
The PCG said the incident occurred on Tuesday, Jan. 24, in the vicinity waters off Sabina Shoal, wherein CCG vessels “blocked” the PCG ship BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403) from approaching Sabina Shoal to conduct maritime patrol and security operations.
In a statement, the PCG said the three Chinese Coast Guard ships were spotted maneuvering and positioned themselves within close proximity of the BRP Malapascua. The Chinese ships were identified as:
- CCG 3301
- CCG 3103
- CCG 3305
The BRP Malapascua was able to maneuver safely away from the CCG vessels and resumed its maritime patrol operations. The PCG said it deployed the BRP Malapascua to Sabina Shoal to conduct “routine maritime security patrols.”
The PCG condemned the actions of the Chinese Coast Guard, saying it was a violation of Philippine sovereignty. The PCG said it will continue to conduct maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea despite the Chinese Coast Guard’s presence.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the South China Sea, where China has been accused of encroaching on the territorial waters of other countries.
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