Zambales, Philippines – The Philippine Coast Guard deployed BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) off the coast of Zambales to confront a China Coast Guard vessel inside the country’s exclusive economic zone.

The China Coast Guard 3105 was spotted 75.9 nautical miles from Palauig Point. BRP Cabra challenged its presence based on Philippine law and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

Despite 10-foot waves, BRP Cabra repeatedly hailed the Chinese vessel but received no reply.

Later that day, BRP Cabra received a distress call from Filipino fishing boat FFB John John. The boat had engine trouble 40.35 nautical miles southeast of Bajo De Masinloc.

Battling harsh conditions, BRP Cabra reached the disabled vessel by 1 PM and began towing it to Subic Port.

The Philippine Coast Guard says this mission reflects its resolve to defend the nation’s maritime rights and protect local fishermen, even under dangerous circumstances.

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