TIMELINE: BRP Teresa Magbanua's Deployment at Sabina Shoal

By janimonow on September 15, 2024

BRP Teresa Magbanua, the largest vessel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), has left Sabina Shoal after a five-month deployment in the disputed West Philippine Sea. The vessel had been stationed to monitor China's alleged reclamation activities in the area, which lies within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Key Events During the Deployment:

April 2024: BRP Teresa Magbanua was deployed to Sabina Shoal to monitor China's alleged reclamation activities after crushed corals were found on the seabed.
May 10: The PCG confirmed that crushed corals were dumped near Sabina Shoal, similar to those observed in Sandy Cay.
May 11: The PCG suspected the dumping of corals was preparation for China's reclamation efforts to build structures, given the shoal's proximity to Palawan.
June 2: A Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel and two Chinese militia ships shadowed BRP Teresa Magbanua at the shoal.
June 7: The Chinese military conducted exercises at Escoda Shoal while Filipino scientists performed a marine survey. Scientists later reported that Sabina Shoal's corals were "almost 100% dead."
July 3: China deployed its largest coast guard vessel, the "Monster" CCG 5901, to watch over BRP Teresa Magbanua.
July 5: The PCG reported that the "Monster" vessel was sent to intimidate the BRP Teresa Magbanua.
August 17: China lodged a formal protest over BRP Teresa Magbanua's presence at Escoda Shoal, claiming it violated China's sovereignty.
August 18: The PCG maintained that Escoda Shoal lies within the Philippines' EEZ, asserting their right to operate there.
August 25: CCG vessels rammed and used a water cannon on BRP Datu Sanday of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources near Escoda Shoal.
August 27: The PCG reported a critical shortage of food and supplies for the BRP Teresa Magbanua crew after Chinese vessels blocked resupply missions.
August 31: A Chinese vessel intentionally rammed BRP Teresa Magbanua's port bow, damaging the ship.
September 11-12: The Philippines and China discussed sea-related issues but failed to reach a resolution on the Sabina Shoal conflict.
September 14: BRP Teresa Magbanua was tracked leaving Sabina Shoal and sailing through the Sulu Sea, ending its mission.

Sabina Shoal, also known as Escoda Shoal, is a contested coral reef within the Philippines' EEZ. It serves as a key location for Philippine vessels heading to Ayungin Shoal.