A China Coast Guard vessel deliberately rammed the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Teresa Magbanua three times during routine patrols near Escoda Shoal, well within the country’ exclusive economic zone.
The premeditated assault at Escoda Shoal, the latest flashpoint in the deepening territorial rivalry between the Philippines and China, occurred at 12:07 p.m. on August 31.
Videos shared by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) show China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 5205 intentionally ramming the BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701).
The National Maritime Council (NMC) condemned the CCG’s aggressive maneuver at Escoda, stating it endangered lives and inflicted significant damage on the PCG vessel, which was conducting maritime patrols just 75 nautical miles from the Philippine baselines.
“The Philippine government emphasizes that the presence of BRP Teresa Magbanua in Escoda Shoal is legal and is in accordance with international law, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” the NMC stated in a release following the incident.
“The NMC calls on the CCG to exercise restraint and prioritize the safety of vessels at sea and aircraft within our airspace,” it further stated.
The NMC asserted that the country will continue its sovereign operations within its maritime zones and that BRP Teresa Magbanua will remain in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), undeterred by acts of harassment and aggression.
“We will not succumb to acts of harassment and aggressive behavior. As directed by the President, the Philippines will fully utilize and continue to pursue diplomatic channels and mechanisms under the rules-based international order and pursue the peaceful resolution of disputes,” stated the NMC.
Last Monday, China obstructed two PCG vessels attempting to deliver essential supplies to the BRP Teresa Magbanua.
Additionally, on Sunday, Chinese vessels rammed two PCG ships en route to Patag and Lawak Islands, where Philippine troops are stationed.
