A CHINA Coast Guard vessel, identified by hull number 21585, collided with and struck a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ship while it was delivering fuel subsidies to Filipino fishermen 54 nautical miles off the coast of Palawan.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed the incident, stating that the BRP Datu Magat Salamat sustained damage in the encounter, which occurred while the vessel was carrying out its official mandate under the government’s assistance program for coastal communities.
The incident took place in waters well within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, where the BFAR vessel was distributing fuel to local fishermen as part of efforts to support the domestic fishing industry and ensure livelihoods in remote island communities. Details regarding the extent of the damage and whether there were any injuries to crew members are still being assessed, but the PCG has classified the event as a direct collision caused by the Chinese vessel.
Authorities are preparing to file a formal diplomatic protest over the incident, asserting that the action violated international maritime law and Philippine sovereignty. The BFAR mission was purely humanitarian and developmental in nature, intended to aid Filipino citizens engaged in traditional livelihood activities within their own maritime territory. The government is expected to demand an explanation, accountability, and assurances that such aggressive encounters will not recur in Philippine waters.
metrosundaily
