THE National Maritime Council (NMC) confirmed on Sunday that BRP Teresa Magbanua has left Sabina Shoal, also known as Escoda Shoal, after completing its five-month mission.
NMC chairperson Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said the “repositioning” of BRP Teresa Magbanua, the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) largest vessel, will allow for crew members to receive medical attention, undergo necessary repairs, and take time off with their families.
“After more than five months at sea, where she carried out her sentinel duties against overwhelming odds, BRP Teresa Magbanua is now sailing back to her homeport with her mission accomplished,” Bersamin said in a statement.
“During her deployment at Escoda Shoal, she challenged an encirclement by a larger flotilla of intruders, battled inclement weather, and her crew survived on diminished daily provisions. This was possible due to the determination and dedication of the men and women on board, who crewed her in the finest tradition of our Philippine Coast Guard sailors, and in honor of the heroine for whom she was named,” he added.
Bersamin stated that BRP Teresa Magbanua will “resume her mission as defenders of our sovereignty” after resupply, repairs, and crew rest.
The USNI News earlier reported that BRP Teresa Magbanua was tracked by AIS data posted on social media leaving Sabina Shoal on Friday then sailing in the Sulu Sea.
The PCG ship has been stationed at the Sabina Shoal since April this year amid reports of China’s reclamation activities in the area.
On August 31, a CCG vessel “intentionally” and repeatedly rammed the BRP Teresa Magbanua at Sabina Shoal, punching a hole on the ship’s hull that was large enough for a person to go through.
Sabina Shoal is located 75 nautical miles or about 140 kilometers off Palawan and is considered within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone.
