By Junex Doronio
MANILA — The Phippine Coast Guard ( PCG) has revealed the latest harassment being experienced when a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel deliberately rammed BRP Teresa Magbanua multiple times at Escoda Shoal.
PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Commodore Jay Tarriela said the ramming incident occurred Saturday (31 August 2024) afternoon. No one was reported hurt.
“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.
The PCG official shared video footage of the ramming incidents.
Tarriela also shared a photo showing several Chinese coast guard and Chinese “maritime militia” vessels surrounding the Philippine law enforcement ship.
“This ramming happened despite unprovoked action and presence in Escoda Shoal… There’s a damage on the bridge swing and also on the sea board of the vessel 9701,” Tarriela said in a press conference.
Located just over 75 nautical miles from Palawan, Escoda Shoal is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay L. Carlson denounced the latest ramming incidents.
“The U.S. condemns the multiple dangerous violations of international law by the PRC, including today’s intentional ramming of the BRP Teresa Magbanua while it was conducting lawful operations within the PH EEZ. We stand with the Philippines in upholding international law,” Carlson said in a statement on X (formerly Twitter).
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