Philippines Concludes Coast Guard Operation in Disputed South China Sea Shoal

The Philippines has concluded the deployment of its coast guard vessel, Teresa Magbanua, in the contested Sabina Shoal after a five-month operation monitoring suspected Chinese reclamation activities. The vessel's return, prompted by crew medical needs and repairs, follows high-level diplomatic talks with China.

The Philippines is ending the five-month deployment of its coast guard vessel, Teresa Magbanua, to the contested Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea. The National Maritime Council announced Sunday that the vessel, tasked with monitoring alleged Chinese reclamation activities, has completed its mission.

The presence of the Teresa Magbanua since April sparked tensions with Beijing, making the shoal a flashpoint in the ongoing maritime dispute. According to Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the vessel is returning to its homeport for crew medical needs and necessary repairs after persistent odds at sea.

Last week's high-level talks between Manila and Beijing, where the Philippines reaffirmed its stance and China demanded the vessel's withdrawal, underline the geopolitical friction. Sabina Shoal, known as Xianbin Reef in China, is located within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, 150 km west of Palawan.

(With inputs from agencies.)