Philippine Coast Guard Thwarts China's Activities In Escoda Shoal

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has made a significant move to assert the country's sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) by halting China's plans to construct an artificial island in Escoda Shoal.

The PCG's proactive stance underscores the Philippines' commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and maritime rights in the WPS. I Photo: Philippine Coast Guard Facebook

According to PCG spokesman for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela, the presence of the PCG in Escoda Shoal has effectively prevented China's illegal activities.

Tarriela emphasized that the PCG's intervention has sent a strong message that the Philippines is not defenseless against China's encroachments in the WPS. He stated in a news forum in Quezon City that the PCG successfully halted the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) from proceeding with their plans in Escoda Shoal.

The PCG's vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua, has been stationed in Escoda Shoal for 26 days to ensure that China does not resume its illegal activities in Philippine waters.

Tarriela highlighted that the mere presence of the PCG has deterred China from continuing its unlawful actions.

Tarriela also mentioned that with the expected arrival of a 97-meter vessel from Japan, which President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. requested from the Japanese government, the PCG aims to further strengthen its efforts in preventing the deployment of Chinese research vessels, maritime militia boats, and CCG ships in Philippine waters.

The PCG's proactive stance underscores the Philippines' commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and maritime rights in the WPS.