Ang Pahayagan

ZAMBALES– The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) swiftly intervened Monday to protect a Filipino fishing vessel harassed by Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea, providing critical assistance and documenting the encounter.

According to Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG Spokesperson for WPS, the incident occurred around noon on January 12, 2026, as the fishing boat FFB Prince LJ headed toward its fishing grounds west of Bajo de Masinloc. A People’s Liberation Army Navy vessel (PLAN 621) and a China Coast Guard ship (CCGV 23521) closed to within 30 meters, blaring sirens and blocking the boat’s path about 16 nautical miles southeast of the shoal.

The fishing boat’s captain changed course to the southeast to evade the vessels but reported being closely trailed by the China Coast Guard ship.

PCG multirole response vessel, BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408), responded promptly, rendezvousing with FFB Prince LJ around 3:48 p.m. The fishing boat’s captain boarded the PCG vessel shortly after 3:59 p.m., where he received medical attention and gave a full account of the aggressive maneuvers. PCG personnel captured photographs and video evidence of the Chinese vessels’ dangerous actions.

In a further act of support, the Coast Guard transferred 10 containers of diesel to the fishing boat, enabling it to proceed with its operations. The captain returned to his vessel by 5:02 p.m., and FFB Prince LJ resumed course toward its intended fishing area.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan reaffirmed the agency’s firm commitment to protecting Filipino fishermen and upholding their rights in Philippine waters.

“The Philippine Coast Guard remains steadfast in defending the safety and maritime rights of our fishermen, in full accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” Admiral Gavan stated.

📸 PCG