BRP Cabra repels larger Chinese vessel off Zambales coast

“The BRP Cabra, despite its smaller size compared to the China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 3103, has been successful in preventing the Chinese vessel from advancing closer to the coast of Zambales,” said the PCG in a statement.

“The PCG vessel has maintained the China Coast Guard vessel to keep a distance of 90-100 nautical miles away from the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).”

BRP Cabra measures only 44 meters in length.

Meanwhile, Beijing deployed CCG-3304 at a distance, seemingly acting as a “supporting vessel” for CCG-3103. Additionally, another Chinese vessel, CCG-5901, was observed a few nautical miles away from CCG-3103.

The PCG reaffirmed its commitment to challenging the unauthorized presence of CCG vessels in Philippine waters.

“The PCG will not allow China to alter the status quo by encroaching closer to the coastline of Zambales. Our continued presence serves as a clear demonstration of our commitment to upholding our sovereign rights and a steadfast stance against any violations of international law, all while prioritizing a peaceful approach,” said the PCG.

Late Saturday, PCG reported that China employed a Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) to harass Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

PCG Spokesperson for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said that a CCG vessel with hull number 3103 used the LRAD to intimidate BRP Cabra and block its approach.

PCG crew members described China’s acoustic device “as producing high decibel levels that can be painful and damaging to hearing,” he said.

“Despite the harassment and the intimidating presence of the Chinese monster ship, BRP Cabra remains committed to its mission,” he said.

LRADs are specialized loudspeakers that can emit sound at a high enough volume to cause damage to eardrums as well as permanent hearing loss.

China has previously employed water cannons and engaged in “dangerous maneuvers” against Philippine vessels in the WPS. — Rex Espiritu