No surrender, abandonment of Escoda Shoal in ship pullout – PCG

Metro Manila, Philippines — The government neither surrendered nor abandoned its stake on Escoda or Sabina Shoal after BRP Teresa Magbanua pulled out from the area at the weekend, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Monday.

In a press briefing, PCG West Philippine Sea spokesperson Jay Tarriela said the country would maintain its presence in the contested area, which is within its exclusive economic zone.

“So, it's a misconception na sinuko natin, hindi na tayo makakabalik,” said Tarriela, responding to comments of netizens.

[Translation: It’s a misconception that we surrendered and can no longer return]

He explained that the pullout was over bad weather, dwindling supplies, and concerns over the health of the crew after five months of extended patrol.

“Definitely, walang tayo isinuko. Wala tayo kinalisan. Dahil pwede natin itong balikan in different ways,” said Tarriela.

[Translation: Definitely, we have not surrendered or vacated the area. We can always return in different ways.]

He said another ship would be deployed to Escoda Shoal but declined to provide other details citing "operational matters."

Escoda different from Scarborough

Tarriela said the ship pullout from Escoda Shoal and the 2012 Scarborough Shoal standoff are different: Escoda is significantly larger than Scarborough, providing maritime forces more options to enter and patrol the area.

“We have the capacity to return as many times as necessary and continue our patrols,” Tarriela said, adding, “As far as the PCG is concerned, we have not lost anything.”

Unrelated to ship pullout

Tarriela said the recent meeting between Philippine and Chinese officials in Beijing was not related to the “Teresa Magbanua” returning to port.

“We have not received any instructions from the Department of Foreign Affairs regarding the vessel’s withdrawal. The decision was made by PCG Commandant Ronnie Gavan due to the ship's seaworthiness and the adverse weather conditions,” Tarriela said.

In a text message to NewsWatch Plus, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said there was no agreement with China about the vessel’s withdrawal.

“There is and was no deal,” Manalo said.