The Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua has left the disputed Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea after spending over five months in the area to assert Philippine claims and prevent China from seizing it. A new vessel is set to replace it immediately, according to the National Maritime Council. China, however, claims indisputable sovereignty over the area.
The Teresa Magbanua had sustained damage in collisions with Chinese vessels, with one incident in August resulting in structural damage blamed on deliberate ramming by the China Coast Guard. Last month, Chinese vessels blocked a resupply mission for the Filipino crew members, leaving them critically low on food and supplies. Talks between officials from the Philippines and China have taken place, with Beijing demanding the withdrawal of the Philippine vessel.
The situation echoes events from 2012 when China took control of Scarborough Shoal after a maritime standoff with the Philippines. Filipino ships were eventually pulled back, leading to tensions in the region. The Philippines has accused China of repeated harassment of its vessels in the South China Sea in recent years.
The departure of the BRP Teresa Magbanua marks the end of the vessel’s mission in the disputed area, with the crew returning home for medical needs and repairs. Another vessel is set to take over to maintain Philippine presence in the region amid ongoing maritime disputes with China.
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