MANILA — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) swiftly intervened on Monday to protect a Filipino fishing vessel harassed by Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea, providing assistance and documenting the encounter.

The incident occurred around noon on January 12, 2026, as the fishing boat FFB Prince LJ headed toward its fishing grounds west of Bajo de Masinloc. A People’s Liberation Army Navy vessel (PLAN 621) and a China Coast Guard ship (CCGV 23521) approached within 30 meters, blaring sirens and blocking the boat’s path about 16 nautical miles southeast of the shoal.

The fishing boat’s captain altered course to evade the vessels but reported being closely trailed by the Chinese Coast Guard ship.

The PCG multirole response vessel BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408) arrived promptly, rendezvousing with FFB Prince LJ around 3:48 p.m. The fishing boat’s captain boarded the PCG vessel shortly after 3:59 p.m., receiving medical attention and giving a full account of the aggressive maneuvers. PCG personnel captured photographs and video evidence of the Chinese vessels’ actions.

In support of the fishing operations, the Coast Guard transferred 10 containers of diesel to the boat. The captain returned to his vessel by 5:02 p.m., and FFB Prince LJ resumed its course toward the fishing area.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting Filipino fishermen and upholding their rights in Philippine waters, in line with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

“The Philippine Coast Guard remains steadfast in defending the safety and maritime rights of our fishermen, in full accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” Admiral Gavan said.