Philippines - April 14, 2025 Zambales, Philippines - A tense maritime encounter occurred off the coast of Zambales between the Philippine Coast Guard and the China Coast Guard. The incident happened yesterday during a patrol by the BRP Cabra in the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone. As the BRP Cabra approached the area, Chinese Coast Guard vessel CCG-21612 increased its speed. It then maneuvered dangerously across the port side of the Philippine vessel. This action blocked the navigation path of the BRP Cabra and raised safety concerns. The maneuver violated international maritime rules, including those set by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. The Philippine Coast Guard described the act as a clear disregard for maritime safety and international law. Despite being smaller, the BRP Cabra continued its patrol, asserting its legal right to operate in the area. The Philippine Coast Guard conducts its missions based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 Arbitral Award. The agency remains committed to protecting the country's maritime rights without escalating conflict.