The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) accused the Chinese vessels on Sunday of “dangerous and blocking” maneuvers during its nine-day patrol near Scarborough Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.
According to the PCG, four Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels shadowed BRP Teresa Magbanua more than 40 times, explaining that these maritime militia vessels were spotted near the shoal.
It added that BRP Teresa Magbanua professionally communicated with the Chinese vessels through radio, stating the clear and principled position of the Philippines in accordance with international law.
The PCG said that the Philippines has rights over Bajo de Masinloc and its territorial seas, as well as jurisdiction over the surrounding waters that are within the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ) based on the Philippine archipelagic baselines.
It was early February when BRP Teresa Magbanua was sent to patrol the water surrounding the Scarborough Shoal to deliver provisions to Filipino fishermen and make sure of their safety.
On the other hand, CCG claimed that the PCG vessel illegally intruded in the waters many times, noting the warnings, dealing with the incident professionally, and following the standard.
