Chinese challenge: BRP Teresa Magbanua crew survive on rainwater

Metro Manila, Philippines – The BRP Teresa Magbanua was back safe on Sunday, Sept. 15, after a five-month extended patrol on Escoda Shoal marked by a Chinese blockade of essential supplies.

Four Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel were immediately given medical attention upon their arrival in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, lacking in food and potable water.

Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said three crew members suffered from dehydration, and another from gout flare-ups. A medical bulletin said there were no serious health risks.

Tarriela detailed the challenges faced by the crew in the final weeks of its mission, worsened by bad weather.

Aggressive blockades from China disrupted the delivery of essential goods, forcing the coast guard to withdraw the flagship vessel from the contested area.

“Starting August, nagkaroon na sila ng problema sa supply nila,” said Tarriela, explaining how China’s actions led to severe shortage.

The “Teresa Magbanua” has a desalinator, but Tarriela said the filters were clogged after prolonged use, limiting the production of freshwater.

“As time went on, the water produced was no longer safe for consumption,” he said.

The crew eventually relied on rainwater and, at times, collected water from the air-conditioning units and boiled it for drinking and cooking.

BRP Teresa Magbanua under repair

The ship will go through repairs on damaged portions during a collision with a Chinese Coast Guard vessel in August.

Tarriela said the ship will not be redeployed to Escoda Shoal immediately pending evaluation.

He added that the government is committed to maintaining a presence in the area regardless of the vessel type.