Screengrab from PTV

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the China Coast Guard (CCG) exchanged multiple messages via megaphone while the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute conducted a survey at Escoda Shoal.

This led to frequent close encounters and maneuvering by both coast guards. Despite PCG’s repeated requests for the CCG to cease interference, the Chinese vessels persisted in their activities, including collisions between their rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs).

Chinese RHIBs continuously followed the PCG vessels, even as marine scientists conducted diving operations to assess the shoal's current condition. Following the initial survey day, China deployed additional assets, including two helicopters from the People's Liberation Army Navy and two hovercrafts as part of an amphibious exercise.

During the return journey of the PCG, scientists, and media to the BRP Teresa Magbanua, the CCG frequently sounded their horns, further escalating tensions.