On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China Sea
ABOARD BRP MALABRIGO — When two Philippine coast guard vessels set out to patrol the volatile South China Sea recently, they had to face more than China’s growing territorial ambitions.
The patrols are a constant battle against sun, sea, stress and gnawing isolation. Journalists joined a recent voyage, which provided a glimpse of what it’s like for members of the Philippine coast guard to work on the front lines of multiple geopolitical conflicts in one of the world’s most fiercely contested seas.
Aaron Favila, Associated Press
A member of the Philippine Coast Guard watches from the bridge of the BRP Malabrigo on April 19 as they patrol and resupply troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea.
The BRP Malabrigo and BRP Malapascua, Japanese-built 144-foot patrol ships, planned to make a circuit of disputed islands, islets and reefs claimed by the Philippines in the Spratly Islands, some occupied by Philippine garrisons and some by Chinese military installations.
China has rapidly built up its military presence in the area in recent years, pushing back other claimants like the Philippines and building artificial islands with airstrips and military garrisons. The rich fishing archipelago is believed to sit atop vast undersea deposits of oil and gas.
The Philippines dispatch regular patrols to assert their claims to the islands, spot encroachments, and resupply Filipino sailors stationed on the islands. Arrayed against far larger and more powerful fleets of Chinese coast guard vessels, navy warships and seaborne militias, the Philippine coast guard says its patrol vessels often face David and Goliath confrontations, especially near Beijing’s artificial island bases.
Aaron Favila, Associated Press
A suspected Chinese militia ship passes April 21 as Philippine Coast Guard members on board the BRP Malabrigo drive them away from Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea.
Life on patrol was a mix of hard work and claustrophobic leisure. It was often so hot that sailors got dizzy after a few minutes outside, so crewmembers spent most of the down time between their four-hour shifts in tiny, air-conditioned cabins. When there was room in the mess hall, a few people might gather to watch a film or sing on the karaoke machine — a Filipino necessity. Some liked to take walks in the ship’s narrow passages.
The sailors, a mix of sunburned veterans and sprightly recruits, brought cellphones brimming with personal photographs and videos and games.
The two ships visited one or two destinations a day, working without interruption day and night. The easiest stops were at places occupied by Filipino forces, where the ships sent motor launches to deliver basic supplies like water, crude oil and cigarettes. At one, thirsty sailors offered dried fish in exchange for extra drinking water.
Visits to Chinese-controlled areas were harder. At one reef, the patrol encountered more than 100 small Chinese boats, suspected of belonging to the militia, anchored in groups. The Filipinos lowered launches and demanded the boats leave Philippine waters. The Chinese boats did not reply, or leave.
Aaron Favila, Associated Press
The Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Malabrigo deploys a boat to transport supplies to the Philippine-occupied Nanshan Island, locally called Lawak, April 20 in the South China Sea.
The patrol faced off with the Chinese Coast Guard at Chinese-occupied Subi Reef, and later at the Second Thomas Shoal, which is occupied by Filipino sailors on a beached, crumbling navy ship, surrounded by Chinese ships.
These encounters are tense, drawn-out affairs. Chinese coast guard and navy ships shadowed the patrol for more than an hour, and over the radio accused the Filipinos of intruding into what Beijing claims as its territorial waters and ordered them by radio to leave or face unspecified counter actions.
A radio operator, holding a paper script in the corner of the bridge, asserted Philippine sovereign rights and asked the Chinese ships to stay away and abide by international anti-collision regulations.
Aaron Favila, Associated Press
A fishing boat passes by a setting sun in the Sulu Sea, as seen April 18 from the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo while it heads to Philippine-occupied areas in the nearby South China Sea.
Meanwhile, the rest of the bridge was quiet, and intensely focused. A radar operator watched intently for tiny changes in the other ship’s speed or bearing. When it approached one knot faster, the commander barked an order to alter the Malabrigos’s speed in response. The encounter lasted for more than an hour.
Commander Julio Colarina III, 41, was a 24-hour fixture on the bridge of the Malabrigo, where he slept on a folding bed when off duty. He’s a second-generation defender of the Philippines’ territorial interests. His father, a retired navy man, spent a year in the 1970s garrisoning Philippine-occupied Thitu Island.
Aaron Favila, Associated Press
Members of the Philippine Coast Guard sing a birthday song to one of their comrades April 22 on the navigational bridge of the BRP Malabrigo during a lull in activities as they patrol and resupply troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea.
As crew members rested between shifts on the bridge, the strains of classic rock hits like “Hotel California” could be heard from the mess hall. One night, a sailor celebrated her birthday in stark austerity: Colleagues put a candle on eggs and prepared sardines, fried fish and rice to mark the occasion.
Asked for a birthday wish, the 27-year-old said, “peace and good health always.”
On April 23, the second to last day of the voyage, journalists witnessed a cliffhanger encounter when a Chinese coast guard ship blocked the Malapascua as it tried to steam toward the Second Thomas Shoal. The crew fell silent. The Malapascua’s Capt. Rodel Hernandez said a near-collision was averted when he abruptly reversed his vessel’s direction and shut off its engine to bring the vessel to a full stop.
The journalists captured the dangerous confrontation on video and cameras, sparking a new round of arguments between Manila and Beijing. The Philippines criticized China for “highly dangerous maneuvers” that it said endangered the Philippine patrol vessels and its crewmembers.
China said the Filipino vessels barged into its territorial waters laden with journalists in a “premeditated provocation designed to deliberately create a friction” intending to lay the blame on Beijing.
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
People pass by the cannon of Japanese cargo ship Oryoku Maru in honor of U.S. soldiers who died during its sinking, at the American Legion Post 4 just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPeople pass by the cannon of Japanese cargo ship Oryoku Maru in honor of U.S. soldiers who died during its sinking, at the American Legion Post 4 just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
A woman waits inside the American Legion Post 4 just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA woman waits inside the American Legion Post 4 just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
U.S. veteran Ray Slayton, post commander of the American Legion Post 4 gestures as he speaks to the Associated Press just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaU.S. veteran Ray Slayton, post commander of the American Legion Post 4 gestures as he speaks to the Associated Press just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
A staff member arranges banners beside the Philippine and U.S. flag at the American Legion Post 4 just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA staff member arranges banners beside the Philippine and U.S. flag at the American Legion Post 4 just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
An old barber's chair sits inside the American Legion Post 4 near what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaAn old barber's chair sits inside the American Legion Post 4 near what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
People walk under street decorations inside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPeople walk under street decorations inside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
People enjoy the sunset inside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPeople enjoy the sunset inside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
Trees and wild vines grow beside abandoned concrete structures called "Quonset huts" formerly used as barracks for U.S. Marines in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaTrees and wild vines grow beside abandoned concrete structures called "Quonset huts" formerly used as barracks for U.S. Marines in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
Trees and wild vines grow beside an abandoned concrete structure called "Quonset huts" formerly used as barracks for U.S. Marines in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaTrees and wild vines grow beside an abandoned concrete structure called "Quonset huts" formerly used as barracks for U.S. Marines in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
This photo shows abandoned concrete structures called "Quonset huts" formerly used as barracks for U.S. Marines in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaThis photo shows abandoned concrete structures called "Quonset huts" formerly used as barracks for U.S. Marines in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
Trees and weed grow outside an abandoned weapons storage structure in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaTrees and weed grow outside an abandoned weapons storage structure in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
Plants grow outside the metal door of an abandoned weapons storage structure in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPlants grow outside the metal door of an abandoned weapons storage structure in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
A man on a jetski passes by the USNS Big Horn American supply ship docked near a shipyard in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA man on a jetski passes by the USNS Big Horn American supply ship docked near a shipyard in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
The USNS John Ericsson American supply ship is docked in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaThe USNS John Ericsson American supply ship is docked in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
A vintage passenger jeepney passes by a road just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA vintage passenger jeepney passes by a road just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
A man on skateboard passes by a road just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA man on skateboard passes by a road just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
Vehicles pass by one of the gates in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaVehicles pass by one of the gates in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
A sign stands on a quiet day in what used to be AmericaÅfs largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA sign stands on a quiet day in what used to be AmericaÅfs largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Rolen C. Paulino gestures beside a Philippine and U.S. flag inside his office in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaSubic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Rolen C. Paulino gestures beside a Philippine and U.S. flag inside his office in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
A man counts money at a currency exchange center just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA man counts money at a currency exchange center just outside what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Rolen C. Paulino gestures beside a U.S. flag inside his office in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaSubic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Rolen C. Paulino gestures beside a U.S. flag inside his office in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
Filipino businessman AJ Saliba gestures during an interview with the Associated Press just outside what used to be AmericaÅfs largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaFilipino businessman AJ Saliba gestures during an interview with the Associated Press just outside what used to be AmericaÅfs largest overseas naval base at Olongapo city, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
FILE -Demonstrators shout slogans as they protest against the visit of U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III who is in the country for talks about deploying U.S. forces and weapons in more Philippine military camps during a rally outside Camp Aguinaldo military headquarters in metro Manila, Philippines on Feb. 2, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila, File)
Aaron FavilaFILE -Demonstrators shout slogans as they protest against the visit of U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III who is in the country for talks about deploying U.S. forces and weapons in more Philippine military camps during a rally outside Camp Aguinaldo military headquarters in metro Manila, Philippines on Feb. 2, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila, File)
-
US lawmakers seek to stop China’s tech rise without a ‘Great Wall’Aaron Favila
Trees and wild vines almost cover an abandoned concrete structure called "Quonset huts" formerly used as barracks for U.S. Marines in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaTrees and wild vines almost cover an abandoned concrete structure called "Quonset huts" formerly used as barracks for U.S. Marines in what used to be America's largest overseas naval base at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines on Monday Feb. 6, 2023. The U.S. has been rebuilding its military might in the Philippines after more than 30 years and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia in a starkly different post-Cold War era when the perceived new regional threat is an increasingly belligerent China. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
A suspected Chinese militia ship passes as members onboard the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo drives them away from Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA suspected Chinese militia ship passes as members onboard the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo drives them away from Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Commander Julio Colarina III, right, sits with his crew at the navigational bridge of the BRP Malabrigo as they begin their patrol in the Sulu Sea, Philippines on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. Two Philippine Coast Guard vessels patrolled in Philippine-occupied areas in the Spratly archipelago, the most fiercely contested region in the busy sea channel. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Commander Julio Colarina III, right, sits with his crew at the navigational bridge of the BRP Malabrigo as they begin their patrol in the Sulu Sea, Philippines on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. Two Philippine Coast Guard vessels patrolled in Philippine-occupied areas in the Spratly archipelago, the most fiercely contested region in the busy sea channel. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila, Associated Press
The Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Malabrigo deploys a boat to transport supplies to the Philippine-occupied Nanshan Island, locally called Lawak, April 20 in the South China Sea.
Aaron Favila, Associated PressThe Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Malabrigo deploys a boat to transport supplies to the Philippine-occupied Nanshan Island, locally called Lawak, April 20 in the South China Sea.
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard apprentice Seawoman Alinea Pagay looks outside the window of the BRP Malabrigo as they patrol around South China Sea on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard apprentice Seawoman Alinea Pagay looks outside the window of the BRP Malabrigo as they patrol around South China Sea on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Seawoman First Class Alaine Maraviles catches water containers after a resupply mission at Philippine-occupied Nanshan island locally named Lawak in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Seawoman First Class Alaine Maraviles catches water containers after a resupply mission at Philippine-occupied Nanshan island locally named Lawak in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
A member of the Philippine Coast Guard checks the map onboard the BRP Malabrigo as they patrol around Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA member of the Philippine Coast Guard checks the map onboard the BRP Malabrigo as they patrol around Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Petty Officer 2 Reggie Lobusta, right, gestures to the bridge of BRP Malabrigo as he checks the path while they approach a Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023 (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Petty Officer 2 Reggie Lobusta, right, gestures to the bridge of BRP Malabrigo as he checks the path while they approach a Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023 (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila, Associated Press
Members of the Philippine Coast Guard sing a birthday song to one of their comrades April 22 on the navigational bridge of the BRP Malabrigo during a lull in activities as they patrol and resupply troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea.
Aaron Favila, Associated PressMembers of the Philippine Coast Guard sing a birthday song to one of their comrades April 22 on the navigational bridge of the BRP Malabrigo during a lull in activities as they patrol and resupply troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea.
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Mimi, the dog, tries to follow Philippine Coast Guard Commander Julio Colarina III onboard BRP Malabrigo as they continue their patrol and resupply missions on Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaMimi, the dog, tries to follow Philippine Coast Guard Commander Julio Colarina III onboard BRP Malabrigo as they continue their patrol and resupply missions on Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
A member of the Philippine Coast Guard points at the map onboard the BRP Malabrigo during their patrol and resupply missions at the Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA member of the Philippine Coast Guard points at the map onboard the BRP Malabrigo during their patrol and resupply missions at the Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard members eat a meal after their four-hour shift onboard the BRP Malabrigo during it's patrol and resupply mission to Philippine-occupied areas at the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard members eat a meal after their four-hour shift onboard the BRP Malabrigo during it's patrol and resupply mission to Philippine-occupied areas at the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
A member of the Philippine Coast Guard watches from the bridge of the BRP Malabrigo as they patrol and resupply troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA member of the Philippine Coast Guard watches from the bridge of the BRP Malabrigo as they patrol and resupply troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Commander Julio Colarina III gives water to his dog Mimi onboard the BRP Malabrigo as they continue their patrol and resupply of troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Commander Julio Colarina III gives water to his dog Mimi onboard the BRP Malabrigo as they continue their patrol and resupply of troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
The sun sets over the South China Sea as it is seen onboard Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo while on patrol and resupply missions to Philippine-occupied areas on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaThe sun sets over the South China Sea as it is seen onboard Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo while on patrol and resupply missions to Philippine-occupied areas on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Members onboard the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo prepare for a resupply mission on Philippine-occupied Northeast Cay locally called Parola in the South China Sea early Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaMembers onboard the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo prepare for a resupply mission on Philippine-occupied Northeast Cay locally called Parola in the South China Sea early Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Members onboard the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo prepare for a resupply mission to troops on Philippine-occupied Northeast Cay locally called Parola in the South China Sea early Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaMembers onboard the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo prepare for a resupply mission to troops on Philippine-occupied Northeast Cay locally called Parola in the South China Sea early Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Members of the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo navigate dark waters on a rigid inflatable boat during a resupply mission to Philippine-occupied Northeast Cay locally called Parola in the South China Sea early morning Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaMembers of the Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo navigate dark waters on a rigid inflatable boat during a resupply mission to Philippine-occupied Northeast Cay locally called Parola in the South China Sea early morning Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Seaman First Class Darrell Osera washes the windows of BRP Malabrigo as they patrol Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Seaman First Class Darrell Osera washes the windows of BRP Malabrigo as they patrol Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Members of the Philippine Coast Guard react as they get a mobile signal onboard the BRP Malabrigo while they come close to Philippine-occupied Thitu island locally known as Pag-asa island in the South China Sea, Philippines on Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaMembers of the Philippine Coast Guard react as they get a mobile signal onboard the BRP Malabrigo while they come close to Philippine-occupied Thitu island locally known as Pag-asa island in the South China Sea, Philippines on Friday, April 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Seawoman First Class Alaine Maraviles places salt on eggs as they cook their meal after their four-hour shift onboard the BRP Malabrigo during it's patrol and resupply mission to Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Seawoman First Class Alaine Maraviles places salt on eggs as they cook their meal after their four-hour shift onboard the BRP Malabrigo during it's patrol and resupply mission to Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Apprentice Gladys Jane Dosdos, turning 27, blows the candle placed on eggs which served as a cake onboard the BRP Malabrigo during it's patrol and resupply mission to Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Apprentice Gladys Jane Dosdos, turning 27, blows the candle placed on eggs which served as a cake onboard the BRP Malabrigo during it's patrol and resupply mission to Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Apprentice Gladys Jane Dosdos, left, hugs Petty Officer 2 Reggie Lobusta as they celebrate Dosdos' birthday onboard the BRP Malabrigo during it's patrol and resupply mission to Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Apprentice Gladys Jane Dosdos, left, hugs Petty Officer 2 Reggie Lobusta as they celebrate Dosdos' birthday onboard the BRP Malabrigo during it's patrol and resupply mission to Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard apprentice Seawoman Alinea Pagay monitors a nearby Chinese Coast Guard vessel onboard the BRP Malabrigo as they patrol Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Sunday, April 23, 2023
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard apprentice Seawoman Alinea Pagay monitors a nearby Chinese Coast Guard vessel onboard the BRP Malabrigo as they patrol Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Sunday, April 23, 2023
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Commander Julio Colarina III hugs his dog Mimi as they enter his room onboard the BRP Malabrigo while it continues patrol and resupply missions at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Sunday, April 23, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Commander Julio Colarina III hugs his dog Mimi as they enter his room onboard the BRP Malabrigo while it continues patrol and resupply missions at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Sunday, April 23, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
A member of the Philippine Coast Guard uses his mobile phone during a break onboard the BRP Malabrigo as they continue their patrol and resupply of troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Friday, April 21, 2023 (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA member of the Philippine Coast Guard uses his mobile phone during a break onboard the BRP Malabrigo as they continue their patrol and resupply of troops at Philippine-occupied areas in the South China Sea on Friday, April 21, 2023 (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Petty Officer 2 Reggie Lobusta sings karaoke in the mess hall as they spend time entertaining themselves before their shift onboard the BRP Malabrigo in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Petty Officer 2 Reggie Lobusta sings karaoke in the mess hall as they spend time entertaining themselves before their shift onboard the BRP Malabrigo in the South China Sea on Thursday, April 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
Philippine Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Reggie Lobusta walks back to his quarters after his four-hour shift onboard the BRP Malabrigo as it continues it's patrol and resupply mission at the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaPhilippine Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Reggie Lobusta walks back to his quarters after his four-hour shift onboard the BRP Malabrigo as it continues it's patrol and resupply mission at the South China Sea on Saturday, April 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
-
On board a Philippine patrol in contested South China SeaAaron Favila
A fishing boat passes by a setting sun in the Sulu Sea, as seen onboard Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo while it heads to Philippine-occupied areas at nearby South China Sea on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Aaron FavilaA fishing boat passes by a setting sun in the Sulu Sea, as seen onboard Philippine Coast Guard BRP Malabrigo while it heads to Philippine-occupied areas at nearby South China Sea on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Petty Officer 2nd Class Reggie Lobusta, who has been deployed to the disputed region multiple times in the past, said he felt like he’d just finished yet another round in a long boxing match, with no end in sight.
“There will be far worse than what we’ve encountered if these problems are not addressed properly,” Lobusta said.
Aaron Favila, Associated Press
Philippine Coast Guard members eat a meal April 22 after their four-hour shift on board the BRP Malabrigo during its patrol and resupply mission to Philippine-occupied areas at the South China Sea.
The patrols are considered some of the most difficult assignments in the Philippine Coast Guard. The entire crew was to undergo brief sessions with psychologists in a “stress debrief” after their return to shore, Colarina said, and received half a month’s salary as hazard pay.
As the Malabrigo headed home after seven days, more crewmembers than usual milled and chatted on the deck, taking selfies with cellphone cameras as the sun set in the background.
“It’s our morale booster — the sunsets, sunrises, dolphins and green turtles,” said Lobusta. “It will break my heart when I retire and leave this ship and my second family here one final time.”
Categories: World News
