The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in a statement condemns the actions by the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) after the PCG BRP Malapascua was hit with “military-grade” laser last February 6.
The BRP Malapascua was on a rotation and resupply mission in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea also known as South China Sea.
According to the PCG, the China Coast Guard ship with bow No. 5205 conducted ‘dangerous maneuvers’ prior to its firing the laser twice emitting a green light towards the PCG ship causing temporary blindness to its crew members.
It was a close call as the CCG 5205 was within 150 yards of the BRP Malapascua after it made so called ‘dangerous maneuvers’ before it fired the lasers with radio warnings from the Chinese counterparts reminding the PCG ship that they are “in the jurisdiction of the People’s Republic of China.”
China claims all of the South China Sea although several other nations have competing claims including the Philippines as parts of it are within the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone.
Thankfully, no untoward incident happened as the Regional Coordinating Center which is based in Palawan ordered the BRP Malapascua to alter its course and avoid further confrontation.
Ayungin Shoal is 194 kilometers off the west of Palawan province where the Philippine maintain an outpost through the decrepit BRP Sierra Madre which served as quarters for navy personnel in the submerged reef.
It is not clear what the effects of the laser to the crew of BRP Malapascua who suffered 10 to 15 seconds of temporary blindness, medical or otherwise.
Credits: Photos from the Philippine Coast Guard
