Screengrab from PCG

In a show of solidarity with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) took decisive action on May 19, 2024, deploying the High-Speed Response Boat (HSRB) from Buliluyan Port to rendezvous with a Philippine Navy Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) carrying sick personnel in need of urgent medical evacuation.

Despite the humanitarian nature of the mission, the operation was marred by aggressive interference from vessels and small boats belonging to the China Coast Guard (CCG). Despite repeated attempts to communicate the urgency of the situation, the CCG engaged in dangerous maneuvers and intentionally rammed the PN RHIB, jeopardizing the lives of the sick personnel onboard.

The brazen actions of the CCG, including the excessive deployment of two vessels (21551 and 21555), two small boats, and two rubber boats, were condemned as barbaric and inhumane by Philippine authorities. The incident underscores the escalating tensions in the region and raises concerns about China's disregard for international norms and humanitarian principles.

Despite facing formidable challenges posed by the interference from the CCG, the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard demonstrated remarkable cooperation, professionalism, and determination. They successfully navigated through the obstacles and safely transferred the sick personnel to Buliluyan Port, where they were promptly transported to the nearest hospital for medical treatment.