Jinggoy bats for higher PCG budget amid BRP Teresa Magbanua pullout from Sabina Shoal

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada on Monday raised the need for more budgetary resources for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) after the pullout of BRP Teresa Magbanua from Escoda Shoal due to its questionable seaworthiness, lack of supplies for the crew, and bad weather conditions.

"Increasing budgetary support is essential to ensure that all deployed vessels receive adequate provisions and regular maintenance to sustain seaworthiness. This includes providing essential medical and welfare support for the crew and investing in technologies and equipment that enable our vessels to operate effectively in adverse weather conditions," Estrada, who also chairs the Senate national defense committee,  said in a statement.

This, as he emphasized that addressing the logistical requirements of the Coast Guard will support their mission and assist the country in upholding its territorial integrity.

"By allocating the necessary budgetary resources, we can uphold the PCG’s role as a formidable force in defending our maritime territories and protecting our national interests," Estrada said.

The Magbanua had been stationed in Escoda Shoal since April amid reports of China’s reclamation activities in the area.

The ship arrived at the port of Puerto Princesa in Palawan on Sunday. During its five-month long deployment the Magbanua was deliberately damaged by Chinese ships in a ramming incident, several of its crew ill and its food stocks and water supply depleted.

Aside from one airborne replenishment, efforts to resupply the vessel were repeatedly blocked by the China Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia.

Escoda Shoal — also known as Sabina Shoal — is located 75 nautical miles or about 40 kilometers off Palawan and is within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Earlier today, PCG spokesperson for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said the Philippines has not lost Escoda Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) despite the pullout of BRP Teresa Magbanua.

Tarriela made the statement when asked if the Philippines already lost Escoda Shoal to China as similar circumstances had previously occurred with Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal.—RF, GMA Integrated News