MANILA — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has successfully deployed two multi-role response vessels to assist Filipino fishermen who were harassed by Chinese vessels near Escoda Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

In a statement, the PCG said it dispatched MRRV-4403 and MRRV-4411 to the area after receiving reports on December 12, 2025 that around 20 Filipino fishing boats were subjected to aggressive actions by Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels 21559 and 21562, along with Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) units.

The PCG said the Filipino fishing boats were targeted with water cannons and dangerous blocking maneuvers while operating lawfully in the area. Small CCG rigid hull inflatable boats also allegedly cut the anchor lines of several fishing boats, placing the vessels and their crews at risk amid strong currents and high waves.

As a result of the incident, three Filipino fishermen sustained physical injuries, including bruises and open wounds, while two fishing boats suffered damage from high-pressure water cannon blasts.

While en route to the affected fishermen, PCG vessels encountered repeated blocking and dangerous maneuvers by CCG vessels 21559, 5204, and 21562. The PCG reported that one CCG vessel, identified as CCG-23519, approached within 35 yards of a PCG vessel during nighttime navigation.

Despite these incidents, the PCG said its vessels were able to reach the fishermen and provide immediate medical assistance and essential supplies.

The PCG added that MRRV-4403 and MRRV-4411 are currently maintaining close proximity to the group of fishermen in coordination with the vessel MV Pamalakaya to ensure their safety. Fuel, ice, and food supplies were also distributed to support the fishermen’s continued operations under the government’s Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda initiative.

The PCG said the China Coast Guard’s statement confirming the implementation of “necessary control measures” against Filipino fishermen serves as an acknowledgment of actions that endangered the lives and livelihoods of Filipinos operating within the country’s exclusive economic zone.

Citing the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the PCG said it remains committed to protecting Filipino fishermen and ensuring maritime safety in the West Philippine Sea, while calling on the Chinese Coast Guard to observe internationally recognized standards of conduct at sea.