Philippine Vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua Leaves Disputed Sabina Shoal After Five Months

Sep 15, 2024, 05:11 AM

The Philippine Coast Guard's vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua, has left the disputed Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea after more than five months of sentinel duties. The 97-meter ship, which had been anchored at the contested reef since April 2024, returned to its home port. This move marks the end of a prolonged standoff between Manila and Beijing over the maritime feature. The China Coast Guard confirmed the departure, stating that the vessel had been illegally anchored in the lagoon of Xianbin Jiao, infringing on China's territorial claims. The vessel also left Escoda Shoal, as confirmed by Philippine government officials and the national maritime council.