PCG Vessel Leads Radio Search for Missing Seafarers After Cargo Ship Sinks
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua is actively conducting radio communications with passing ships this Saturday, January 24, as part of ongoing search and rescue operations. The effort aims to locate four missing Filipino crew members from the Singaporean-flagged cargo vessel M/V Devon Bay, which capsized and sank near Scarborough Shoal on Friday, January 23.
Radio Communications and International Cooperation
Operating approximately 141 nautical miles west-northwest of Tambobong, Pangasinan, the PCG radio operator has advised all vessels in the vicinity to exercise caution, remain vigilant, and provide assistance if necessary, in accordance with international maritime regulations. Ships are urged to report any information about the missing crew immediately to the designated station on Z Chef Channel one six.
In a related development, the Chinese Embassy in Manila issued an update today, confirming that joint maritime rescue operations between China and the Philippine Coast Guard are ongoing. Chinese vessels Dongsha and Sanmen have joined forces with the BRP Teresa Magbanua, which arrived at the incident site last night to conduct a sector-by-sector search and rescue operation.
Rescue Efforts and Casualty Updates
The Chinese embassy reported that four Filipino crew members remain unaccounted for. Previously, it was confirmed that the China Coast Guard rescued 17 Filipino crew members, while two were confirmed deceased as a result of the incident.
In a statement on X, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela expressed gratitude to the China Coast Guard for their swift and professional response in the search and rescue operations to save the distressed Filipino seafarers. He emphasized that this action reflects the proper duty of a coast guard—saving lives at sea—rather than engaging in intimidation, harassment, or blocking vessels, and preventing Filipino fishermen from earning a livelihood within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Hope for Future Standards and Recognition
Commodore Tarriela further expressed hope that such humane and responsible actions will set a standard and be respected. He also anticipates that the China Coast Guard will eventually recognize that the areas where these incidents occur fall within the Philippines' EEZ.
This collaborative effort highlights the critical importance of international maritime cooperation in emergency situations, underscoring the shared commitment to safety and rescue operations in the region.
