By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz | Philippine News Agency
Thirteen undocumented Chinese workers were found aboard the dredger vessel “Harvest 89” during a pre-departure inspection by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Mariveles, Bataan on Tuesday.
In a situation report Wednesday, the PCG said the pre-departure inspection occurred after an agent of Harvest 89 notified the PCG of the ship’s departure for San Felipe, Zambales for dredging operations.
“However, when the PCG attempted to board the vessel for a pre-departure inspection and to secure the Master’s Declaration of Safe Departure, the agent denied entry, claiming that all necessary documentation was in order,” it said.
The refusal prompted PCG personnel from its substation in Limay, Bataan to perform a more detailed inspection.
A composite team from the PCG initially discovered nine undocumented Chinese crew members even though the ship manifest stated only eight Filipino crew members.
A follow-up inspection found four more undocumented Chinese nationals in hiding, bringing their total to 13.
“Additionally, a uniform resembling that of the People’s Liberation Army was found on board, raising significant concerns regarding the intentions of these undocumented individuals,” it said.
Following the operation, the PCG has reached out to relevant government agencies to investigate the presence of the Chinese nationals.
“Efforts are underway to pursue legal action and ensure the custody of these undocumented individuals,” it said.
The operation, it said, highlighted the PCG’s continued commitment to safeguarding the country’s maritime borders and territorial waters.
“We will continue our vigilant inspections and take necessary actions to address any violations of maritime laws,” it said.