Tensions remain high in the West Philippine Sea as the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) continues to monitor the presence of Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels near Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal. Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson on West Philippine Sea issues, reported that three CCG ships, including the so-called “monster ship” CCG 5901, were sighted in the area.
The CCG 5901, measuring 165 meters, was detected approximately 99.37 nautical miles from Zambales. CCG-3502, at 131.70 nautical miles, and the 77.7-meter CCG 3103, at 133.97 nautical miles, were also observed. Tarriela stated that the PCG utilized its Dark Vessel Detection system to track these vessels.
Panatag Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, holds significant importance as a traditional fishing ground for Filipinos. Located within the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ), the shoal has been a focal point of contention between the Philippines and China.
A 2012 standoff between Filipino and Chinese forces led to the Philippines filing a case against China at the Permanent Court of Arbitration. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of the Philippines, upholding its sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea within its EEZ and invalidating China’s expansive claim over the entire South China Sea.
Simultaneously occurring, the PCG’s 97-meter patrol ship BRP teresa Magbanua continues to challenge the presence of the 111-meter CCG 3304. Tarriela reported that the CCG vessel was consistently tracked at an average distance of 82-88 nautical miles from Zambales’ shoreline. BRP Teresa Magbanua replaced BRP Cabra, which returned to Subic Bay carrying the remains of a Filipino fisherman who tragically died during a fishing trip.
Since January 4, several CCG ships, including the aforementioned vessels, have been rotating their presence in the West Philippine Sea.
Philippine Marines Strengthen Capabilities with New Combat Boats
In a separate progress, the Philippine Marines announced the acquisition of 19 new amphibious combat boats, significantly bolstering its readiness and operational capabilities. These Combat rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC) equipped with outboard motors will be utilized by the Force Reconnaissance Group (FRG).
Captain Mary-ann Domacena, director of the marine Corps Public Affairs Office, confirmed that the combat boats underwent prosperous testing on the shores of Ternate, Cavite, last Saturday. According to Domacena, the CRRCs will be deployed by FRG units attached to marine brigades and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Special Operations Command, supporting various special operations missions.
“It will enhance its capability through providing reliable platforms that were operationally ready during various small-scale amphibious operations,” Domacena stated.
She emphasized that the new combat vessels will ensure a sufficient number of operational assets, ready to be deployed for any military operation. Aligned with the AFP Modernization Program, the Philippine Marine Corps is committed to becoming a highly responsive amphibious crisis response force. This objective aligns with the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defence Concept,highlighting the crucial need to strengthen capabilities for safeguarding philippine territory.
Lunar New Year Message: A Plea for peace in the West Philippine Sea
As the Lunar New Year celebrations filled the country with joy and optimism, the militant group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) issued a timely appeal for peace in the contested waters of the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Bayan President renato Reyes emphasized the significance of the occasion, urging Chinese nationals to join Filipinos in working towards harmony and cooperation.
”The Lunar New Year should serve as a reminder of the shared values of peace, harmony, and cooperation between Filipinos and Chinese citizens,” Reyes stated.He stressed that the spirit of this festive season should inspire both nations to seek peaceful resolutions for the ongoing conflicts in the WPS.
Reyes called for a demilitarization of the WPS,asserting that the buildup of military presence by external powers,including the United States,only serves to escalate tensions in the region. “This escalation poses a grave threat to the stability, security, and sovereignty of the Philippines,” he warned.
His words resonate with a growing sentiment in the Philippines concerning the WPS, a resource-rich area claimed by several nations, including China. The WPS has become a focal point of geopolitical tension, raising concerns about potential conflicts and the impact on regional security.
philippine Coast Guard Monitors Chinese Vessels Near Panatag Shoal
Interview with Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG Spokesperson on West Philippine Sea issues
Archyde: Commodore Tarriela, thank you for joining us today.Tensions remain high in teh West Philippine Sea. Could you provide an update on the situation regarding the presence of Chinese Coast Guard vessels near Panatag Shoal?
Commodore Tarriela: Thank you for having me. Yes, we continue to monitor the presence of Chinese coast guard vessels in the vicinity of Panatag Shoal. Recently, we detected three vessels, including the so-called ”monster ship” CCG 5901, approximately 99.37 nautical miles from Zambales. We also observed CCG 3502, at 131.70 nautical miles, and CCG 3103, at 133.97 nautical miles. Our Dark Vessel Detection system has been instrumental in tracking these vessels.
Archyde: Panatag Shoal holds significant importance for Filipino fishermen. How does the PCG ensure the safety and security of Filipino fishermen operating in the area?
Commodore Tarriela: Protecting Filipino fishermen is our utmost priority. We regularly patrol the area, conduct maritime exercises, and engage in diplomatic channels to assert our sovereign rights. Our BRP Teresa Magbanua, a 97-meter patrol ship, is currently challenging the presence of the 111-meter CCG 3304, consistently tracking it at an average distance of 82-88 nautical miles from Zambales’ shoreline.
Archyde: The permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of the Philippines in 2016 regarding the West Philippine Sea. How does the PCG factor this ruling into its operations?
Commodore Tarriela: The 2016 ruling is a strong legal basis for our actions. We operate within the framework of international law and uphold the Philippines’ sovereign rights over its exclusive economic zone.Our presence in Panatag Shoal reflects our commitment to safeguarding our maritime interests.
Archyde: Looking ahead, what are the PCG’s priorities in ensuring peace and stability in the West Philippine Sea?
Commodore Tarriela: Our priorities remain consistent: safeguarding Philippine sovereignty, protecting Filipino fishermen, upholding international law, and promoting peaceful resolution of disputes. We continue to engage in dialogue with relevant stakeholders, strengthen our maritime capabilities, and collaborate with international partners to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Archyde: Thank you, Commodore Tarriela, for your insights. Your commitment to protecting Philippine interests in the West Philippine Sea is commendable. Given the ongoing tensions,what message would you like to send to the international community?
Commodore Tarriela: We urge all parties involved to exercise restraint,respect international law,and engage in constructive dialogue. The West Philippine Sea is vital to regional security and prosperity, and it’s crucial that we work together to ensure its peaceful and sustainable development.
