MANILA, Philippine: A Philippine Coast Guard vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua, which had been stationed at the disputed Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea since April, has left the area, according to the Philippine National Maritime Council.
The ship had been anchored there to assert Manila’s territorial claims and deter China from seizing the shoal. The vessel’s withdrawal follows recent tensions and collisions between Chinese and Philippine vessels near the shoal, located 140 kilometers from the Philippines’ Palawan island.
During its deployment, the Teresa Magbanua faced challenges, including an encirclement by Chinese ships, harsh weather, and dwindling supplies. In one incident, the ship sustained damage during a collision with Chinese vessels. Despite these difficulties, the crew remained to assert the Philippines’ sovereignty.
China responded by reaffirming its claim over the shoal, which it calls Xianbin Jiao, accusing Manila of infringing on its territorial sovereignty. Beijing warned the Philippines to halt its provocations and adhere to the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. The Philippines, however, has vowed to continue monitoring and enforcing its rights over the disputed waters.
This situation mirrors the 2012 standoff at Scarborough Shoal, where China ultimately gained control after Manila withdrew its vessels.
