A BUREAU of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel ran aground at Hasa‑Hasa Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on Thursday while delivering fuel subsidies to local fishermen, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed Friday.
The BRP Datu Magat Salamat was approaching a group of 15 to 20 Filipino fishing boats as part of the government’s Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda Program when it struck shallow waters. Fishing vessels nearby immediately attempted to tow the ship free, but their efforts failed due to low tide and limited pulling power.
The PCG dispatched BRP Malabrigo from Buliluyan Port in Bataraza, Palawan, carrying rescue divers to the scene. Arriving shortly after noon, the crew deployed a 600‑meter towline via rigid‑hulled inflatable boat and worked through challenging conditions — southwesterly winds reaching 22 to 27 knots and large waves. By 3:34 p.m., the BFAR vessel was successfully refloated and pulled clear of the shoal without reported injuries or major damage.
During the operation, a China Coast Guard aircraft with tail number 11101 was observed conducting aerial surveillance over the area, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela noted. The incident highlights continued activity in the contested waters, even as Philippine government vessels carry out assistance missions to communities in the Kalayaan Island Group.
metrosundaily
