China again tries to block PH vessel on resupply mission to Bajo de Masinloc

The China Coast Guard (CCG) once again tried to block a Philippine vessel on a resupply mission to Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea.

In a video posted by GMA Integrated News’ John Consulta on Facebook on Saturday, it could also be seen that the CCG deployed a new floating barrier in the area to prevent the passage of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel BRP Datu Sanday. 

The vessel was carrying diesel and aid for Filipino fisherfolk in Bajo de Masinloc.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) also released drone footage of the incident.

It showed CCG ship 3105 and a Chinese maritime militia vessel blocking the BRP Datu Sanday from reaching the area also known as Scarborough Shoal.

The CCG ship traveled in reverse just to block its path three times, which prompted the Philippine vessel to issue a radio challenge. The Chinese Navy then deployed a helicopter from its warship to monitor the BFAR vessel and the Filipino fishermen in the area.

In response, the BFAR also deployed a Cessna plane to monitor the alleged harassment conducted by the CCG.

According to the PCG, the Philippine vessel was still able to pass through despite CCG’s presence, to distribute aid to 44 “mother fishing boats” in Bajo de Masinloc. —Jamil Santos/VAL/KG, GMA Integrated News