By Katrina Gracia Consebido
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) deployed BRP Melchora Aquino to Sandy Cay and Pag-asa Island to strengthen its presence in the area, according to its official.
PCG Commandant CG Admiral Artemio Abu said BRP Melchora Aquino transported residents of Kalayaan, Palawan who participated in the Great Kalayaan expedition 2023 during its maritime patrol, which aims to promote Lawak, Likas, and Pag-asa tourism.
The vessel also housed the Coast Guard District Palawan-District Support Group for Command Observation Post Lawak Repair and Maintenance team and the eight-incoming duty of Philippine National Police Special Operation Unit-Maritime Group at Pag-asa Island.
Coast Guard Legal Service, Medical Team, Regional Coordinating Center Palawan, and Special Operating Unit Palawan provided force augmentation.
The BRP Melchora Aquino spotted multiple Chinese vessels of interest in Kalayaan Island Group waters during the mission.
PCG officers monitored eight foreign fishing vessels using superlights in Menzies Reef waters using RADAR/AIS.
Two more foreign fishing vessels were spotted near Lawak Island. – gb
