PLA Navy ship, China Coast Guard vessel collide near Panatag Shoal

A Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) warship collided with a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel on Monday morning approximately 10.5 nautical miles east of Panatag Shoal, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

PCG–West Philippine Sea spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela said the incident occurred when CCG vessel 3104, while chasing the PCG’s BRP Suluan at high speed, executed a risky maneuver from the PCG vessel’s starboard quarter and struck PLA Navy ship 164.

“This resulted in substantial damage to the CCG vessel’s forecastle, rendering it unseaworthy,” Tarriela said.

The collision took place as the PCG carried out the “Kadiwa Para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda (KBBM)” operation in Bajo de Masinloc, where around 35 Filipino fishing boats were present.

The PCG deployed the BRP Teresa Magbanua, BRP Suluan, and MV Pamamalakaya to deliver supplies and fuel to the fishermen.

PCG vessels reportedly encountered “hazardous maneuvers and blocking actions” from other ships in the area. The BRP Teresa Magbanua was targeted with a water cannon, but PCG crew members were able to evade the hit.

Following the collision, Tarriela said the PCG “immediately offered support, including assistance with man-over-board recovery and medical aid for any injured CCG crew members.”

The PCG added that the BRP Teresa Magbanua and MRRV 9701 escorted the Filipino fishermen to a safe location, where they were provided with fuel and other supplies.