As BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) left Escoda (Sabina) Shoal after a five-month-long deployment, senators saluted its crew for their heroism, also seeking additional funding for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said that the government must address the logistical requirements of the PCG to fully support its mission and assist in upholding our nation's territorial integrity.
Estrada added that this is particularly crucial given the challenges they have encountered, as exemplified by the case of BRP Teresa Magbanua.
"Increasing budgetary support is essential to ensure that all deployed vessels receive adequate provisions and regular maintenance to sustain seaworthiness. This includes providing essential medical and welfare support for the crew and investing in technologies and equipment that enable our vessels to operate effectively in adverse weather conditions," he said.
"Nararapat na bigyan natin ang kaukulang suporta ang PCG na hindi natitinag ang propesyonalismo at pagiging matatag na puwersa sa pagtatanggol sa ating maritime territories at pagprotekta sa ating pambansang interes (It is imperative that we provide the necessary support to the PCG, which remains unwavering in its professionalism and steadfast commitment to defending our maritime territories and protecting our national interests)," he added.
Estrada stated that by allocating the necessary budgetary resources, we can uphold the PCG’s role as a formidable force in defending our maritime territories and protecting our national interests.
Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino said it's about time BRP Teresa Magbanua's crew get their much-needed rest.
“Tama lang na magpahinga muna at magpagamot ang crew ng BRP Teresa Magbanua, saludo po tayo sa kabayanihan nila (It's about time for the crew of BRP Teresa Magbanua to take a break and receive medical attention. We salute their heroism)," he said in a statement on Sunday, Sept. 15.
In a statement, National Maritime Council (NMC) chair and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said the vessel has carried out her sentinel duties against overwhelming odds.
Commodore Jay Tarriela, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS), said BRP Teresa Magbanua "was compelled to return to port due to unfavorable weather conditions, depleted supplies of daily necessities, and the need to evacuate personnel requiring medical care."
Four crew members were carried on a stretcher when it arrived at the port around 2 p.m. They suffered from stomach pain, dehydration, and arthritis.
"Kailangan ding i-repair muna ang barko (The ship needs to be repaired first)," Tolentino said.
"Subalit dapat ay pag-aralang may barko na pumalit sa BRP Teresa Magbanua upang maipagpatuloy ang ating presensya sa ating Exclusive Economic Zone (However, a study can be conducted on a substitute vessel to replace the BRP Teresa Magbanua, allowing us to maintain our presence in our Exclusive Economic Zone)," he added.
Bersamin said BRP Teresa Magbanua would resume her mission after she had been resupplied and repaired and her crew had recharged.
“She will be in tiptop shape to resume her mission, along with other PCG and AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) assets, as defenders of our sovereignty,” he said.