The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), aboard patrol vessel MCS-3009, successfully apprehended a fishing vessel for failing to respond to a radio challenge on Marine Band Channel 16, a critical frequency for maritime communication and safety in Manila Bay yesterday, 13 November 2024.

The MCS-3009, have seized a fishing vessel, identified by its bow markings “F/B DOM-4,” was navigating through the inbound channel of the Corregidor North Traffic Separation Scheme when the violation occurred.

During the intervention, PCG and BFAR personnel discovered that the vessel’s radio was malfunctioning — a serious maritime safety issue that compromises communication and coordination at sea.

Additionally, it was confirmed that the vessel had departed Mariveles without obtaining the required clearance from the PCG, a direct violation of established safety protocols. As a result of these violations, F/B DOM-4 has been detained at Coast Guard Station (CGS) Manila for further inspection.

According to the Coast Guard District NCR-Central Luzon, this proactive action underscores the PCG’s commitment to enforcing maritime regulations, particularly those aimed at preventing unsafe vessels from operating, thereby reducing the risk of maritime accidents in Philippine waters.