The Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) on Thursday reported sightings of a Chinese fishing vessel in the waters of Sanga-Sanga, Tawi-Tawi.
NFWM Public Affairs Officer Lieutenant Chester Ross Cabaltera said that the Navy’s BRP Laurence Narag was sent to investigate an unidentified ship detected by its monitoring station in the area.
“The patrol vessel BRP Laurence Narag (PG907), part of Naval Task Force 61, was sent to investigate an unidentified ship reported by a monitoring station in Tawi-Tawi,” Cabaltera said.
The ship was traversing at 20 nautical miles northwest of Sanga-Sanga, Tawi-Tawi, and was not responding to radio communications.
An hour later, the ship identified itself as the Chinese fishing vessel F/V Cheung Kam Wing, traveling from Indonesia to Hong Kong with four Chinese crew members.
“The NFWM carried out an inspection procedure to the vessel and found no violations or irregularities. The fishing vessel was allowed to continue its journey but remained under monitoring to ensure safety and security in the area,” he added.
The NFWM assured its intensified maritime patrol and defense operation in the area.