Chinese ships spotted in Panatag during Philippines humanitarian mission

Upgrade to High-Speed Internet for only ₱1499/month!

Enjoy up to 100 Mbps fiber broadband, perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming.

Visit Suniway.ph to learn

February 1, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Patrol ships of the China Coast Guard (CCG) were seen at the vicinity of Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal during the latest humanitarian mission for Filipino fishermen venturing in the area, the Philippine Coast Guard reported.

According to PCG spokesman on West Philippine Sea issues Commodore Jay Tarriela, spotted in the area were CCG vessels with bow numbers 3105, 3106, and 2307.

PCG patrol ships BRP Gabriela Silang, BRP Cape San Agustin and BRP Cabra helped in carrying out the Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda (KBBM) by delivering fuel subsidies, freshwater, ice and food packs, Tarriela said.

Up to 50 Filipino fishing boats from Zambales, Bataan, Pangasinan and Mindoro were present.
A PCG aircraft also flew over the surroundings during the operation.

The supplies would encourage Filipino fishermen, who have been in the area since Jan. 26, “to sustain their extended fishing activities,” Tarriela said.

“Despite the continued presence of these CCG vessels, Filipino fishermen have steadfastly continued to fish in these waters, exercising their rightful access to fish,” he noted.

“This operation underscores the unwavering resolve of the Philippines: Filipino fishermen will continue to fish in these waters, and the PCG will continue to protect them and uphold UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea), the 2016 Arbitral Award and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act,” Tarriela said.