Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, CG Admiral Ronnie Gil L Gavan, has deployed BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) for a two-week mission to Batanes and Benham Rise starting today, 04 March 2024.

According to PCG Spokesperson, CG Rear Admiral Armando Balilo, the said vessel will patrol the vicinity waters to conduct maritime domain awareness, intensify Coast Guard presence in Northern Luzon, and monitor local fishermen.

"We will also check the reported Chinese research vessels in Benham Rise," CG Rear Admiral Balilo furthered.

Meanwhile, air assets of the Coast Guard Aviation Force are on standby for possible augmentation, specifically in performing aerial surveillance.