Photo credit: PCG

The Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) BRP Cabra is stepping into the spotlight as it takes over patrol duties from BRP Suluan in the waters 65 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales. This strategic move is part of the PCG’s ongoing efforts to challenge the illegal presence of the China Coast Guard (CCG) in Philippine waters.

As BRP Cabra arrived to relieve its sister ship, it didn’t take long for another CCG vessel, marked with bow number 3304, to approach the area. This came on the heels of BRP Suluan’s careful monitoring of CCG-3103. Interestingly, as BRP Suluan sailed back toward Subic, CCG-3304 also started pulling away from the Philippine coastline—a telling sign that the PCG’s presence is making waves.

The crew aboard BRP Cabra has hit the ground running, engaging in hourly radio challenges with CCG-3103 to call out their violations under the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, UNCLOS, and the historic 2016 Arbitral Award. The goal? To assert Philippine sovereignty and prevent the CCG from inching closer to Zambales.

Weathering rough seas and towering waves, the brave men and women of BRP Cabra remain steadfast. Their mission is clear: protect Philippine maritime rights while avoiding provocation. Their presence sends a firm message—this is our territory, and we’re not backing down.

It’s a high-stakes standoff at sea, but the PCG’s determination to uphold the rule of law proves once again that they’re ready to stand guard, no matter the challenge.