Chinese Coast Guard Ships Shadow Philippine Vessel
Two China Coast Guard (CCG) ships closely followed the training ship Kapitan Felix Oca, which was carrying civilian volunteers from the “Atin Ito” Coalition sailing to Pag-asa (Thitu) Island in the West Philippine Sea. This incident was revealed by sources familiar with the matter on Tuesday, May 27.
The presence of Chinese maritime militia and coast guard vessels near Pag-asa Island has become a common occurrence, given the island’s proximity to Subi or Zamora Reef. This reef, a low tide elevation about 16 miles from Pag-asa, has been militarized by China, local experts noted.
The Atin Ito Coalition began their journey early morning. Reports indicate that the group was tailed by two Chinese Coast Guard ships identified as CCG 3306 and CCG 21549 while en route to Pag-asa Island. Their mission included holding a historic sea concert that features both local and international artists.
Details of the Shadowing Incident and Responses
The shadowing took place approximately 54 nautical miles off the coast of El Nido, Palawan. Observers spotted CCG 3306 three nautical miles from the Kapitan Felix Oca, while CCG 21549 maintained a distance of six nautical miles. Both parties engaged in radio communications during the encounter, according to community leaders involved in the Atin Ito Coalition.
Authorities confirmed that the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard were ready to offer support should tensions rise. The Philippine Coast Guard deployed the BRP Melchora Aquino, a 97-meter multi-role response vessel, along with the 44-meter patrol ship BRP Malapascua to escort the civilian vessel.
“Atin ito is a civil society effort. They have done all the coordination with the appropriate government agencies prior to the conduct of the activity. We fully support them, the Philippine Navy, the AFP, and even other government agencies in the maritime domain are prepared to respond to support anything that they would need while conducting their concert at sea,” said officials familiar with the situation.
Assessment of Chinese Actions and Security Implications
Despite the shadowing, there was no indication that the Chinese vessels performed any dangerous maneuvers against the Atin Ito vessel. However, local experts caution that this does not erase the pattern of aggressive and coercive behavior exhibited by Chinese forces in the West Philippine Sea.
These developments underscore the ongoing challenges faced in maintaining peace and security in contested maritime areas. The Philippine government continues to monitor the situation closely and remains prepared to take necessary actions to protect its interests and citizens.
For more news and updates on West Philippine Sea, visit Filipinokami.com.