Quezon city: A ranking Philippine Navy (PN) official stated that naval units on Pag-asa Island were "alerted" over the weekend following the ramming of a Philippine vessel by Chinese maritime forces. The incident prompted immediate measures to prepare for any potential escalation, although the situation deescalated shortly thereafter, according to Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, PN spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, during a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo.

According to Philippines News Agency, prior to the ramming incident on Sunday, a China Coast Guard vessel used a water cannon against the BRP Pagbuaya, a vessel belonging to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). The Philippine vessel was stationed in the territorial waters of Pag-asa Island as part of government initiatives to safeguard Filipino fishermen operating in the area.

Trinidad confirmed the presence of military personnel and naval assets on Pag-asa Island during the incident, which occurred approximately 1.6 to 1.8 nautical miles from the location. He emphasized that contingency plans are in place for various scenarios and assured that the navy could respond appropriately to any further developments.

Trinidad refrained from disclosing specific details of these contingency plans but affirmed that all potential eventualities have been considered, ensuring readiness for any future incidents involving Chinese maritime forces.