By: Tabunda, Marvi Jean
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has honored the captain and 38 crew members of BRP Bagacay for their response to a recent water cannon assault by the Chinese coast guard. Despite facing powerful resistance, the crew successfully carried out their humanitarian mission to Panatag Shoal last April 30, 2024.
Captain Jane Gesulgon of BRP Bagacay, under the leadership of PCG officer-in-charge Vice Admiral Rolando Lizor Punzalan Jr., was commended for ensuring the accomplishment of the mission and the safety of her crew. The 38 crew members of the 44-meter multirole response vessel were awarded the “Coast Guard Merit Medal and Ribbon” for their courage.
On April 30th, while delivering food and essential supplies to Filipino fishermen near Panatag Shoal, the Bagacay and another Filipino ship were bombarded with water cannon pressure exceeding 200 pounds per square inch, causing damage to the main area and destruction to the ship’s rails. PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela estimated repair costs to be between P2 million to P3 million for the patrol vessel. Tarriela also emphasized the Philippines’ stance on exposing each infringement and provocation by Beijing in the West Philippine Sea to the international community, showcasing how they disrupt regional stability and blatantly violate UNCLOS and international law. “The instability and rising tension in the South China Sea are rooted in the PRC’s (People’s Republic of China) interest and greed,” he said.
At a gathering held at the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy in San Narciso, Zambales, on April 29, 2024, Tarriela expressed his dismay at seeing the Philippine flag targeted by the Chinese in their attack on Bagacay and Bankaw last Tuesday. He reiterated his appeal for unity among Filipinos and emphasized the importance of not being influenced by false information. “Imagine, our flag being hit, our coast guard ship being water cannoned, and yet there are still some Filipinos who justify China’s actions,” he said.
