The Philippines has disclosed that the decision to withdraw the BRP Teresa Magbanua from Sabina Shoal was due to hunger and dehydration among the crew. The Chinese coastguard’s aggressive maneuvers obstructed a resupply mission, leading to extreme conditions onboard.
After months at sea, the crew arrived in Palawan visibly fatigued and ill. Lack of supplies forced them to drink rainwater and survive on meager rations, causing exhaustion and illnesses. A subsequent resupply attempt was thwarted by Chinese vessels, exacerbating the crew’s plight.
The ship’s desalination equipment malfunctioned during the extended stay at the shoal, leaving the crew reliant on rainwater and unconventional sources for drinking water. Despite the withdrawal, the Philippines maintains its claim over the area and plans to send another ship to uphold presence in the region, as per reports from The Manila Bulletin.