Palawan fisherfolk were alarmed after a Chinese vessel ran aground near Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea on June 7, amid bad weather.
The vessel, spotted about two nautical miles from the island, resembled Chinese maritime militia boats, raising concerns among locals about its possible intent.
The Philippine Navy and Coast Guard deployed assets to assess the situation and offer aid to any distressed crew.
The vessel was later towed away by a China Coast Guard ship and two smaller vessels, but residents noted it left markings in the water.
The incident adds to growing unease among Pag-asa residents, as Chinese vessels continue to inch closer to the island despite the Philippines’ legal victory in the 2016 arbitral ruling.
Source: PhilNews24 | June 9, 2025
