On 11 October 2024, two Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessels were conducting a routine maritime patrol (MARPAT) in the vicinity of Pag-asa (Sandy) Cays, at about five nautical miles from Pag-asa (Thitu) Island in Bgy Pag-asa, Kalayaan, Palawan.

 

At around 0745H, as BRP Datu Cabaylo (MMOV 3001) was slowly approaching Pag-asa (Sandy) Cay 4, Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) vessel with bow number 00108 deliberately sideswiped the BRP Datu Cabaylo (MMOV 3001) at the starboard bow (front right portion) of the Philippine vessel.

 

Prior to this, the CMM vessel 00108 conducted dangerous maneuvers and tried to block the path of BRP Datu Cabaylo. (MMOV 3001). These dangerous maneuvers caused the sideswiping and
collision with the BFAR vessel, which sustained minor dents in its starboard bow.

Despite the incident, the BFAR vessel maintained its position and was able to continue with its MARPAT mission in the Pag-asa (Sandy) Cays. Both the BRP Datu Cabaylo (MMOV 3001) and the BRP Datu Sanday (MMOV 3002) successfully completed their MARPAT mission in the Pag-asa (Sandy) Cays, and are now safely docked at the Pag-asa Sheltered Port.

 

It will be recalled that Pag-asa (Sandy) Cay 4 is located at 5.1 NM south-southwest of Pagasa Island and is well within the island’s 12 NM territorial waters.

 

We commend the officers and crew of the BRP Datu Cabaylo (MMOV 3001) as they continue to perform their duty, in line with the mandate of BFAR, to uphold Philippine jurisdiction and rights over its territorial waters and exclusive economic zone.