SUMMARY
MANILA, Philippines – Philippine forces – the military and its coast guard – were able to evacuate Philippine Navy personnel from the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal on July 7, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said Tuesday, July 9, despite efforts by its Chinese counterpart to hamper the operation.
“The PCG faced numerous obstructing and delaying maneuvers by CCG (China Coast Guard) vessels, but they remained steadfast to their humanitarian mission and was able to complete the transfer of the sick personnel from the LS-57 RHIB to the PCG RHIB,” said Commodore Jay Tarriela in a statement to media.
RHIB refers to rigid hull inflatable boats or small dingeys that larger PCG or military ships deploy to transport people and small items, or to reach shallower waters.
Two PCG vess…