Filipino Fishing Boat Rammed Near Spratly Islands: Answers Still Elusive

Date: March 6, 2025

MANILA, Philippines — A recent maritime incident involving the Filipino fishing boat, FBCA Prince Elmo 2, has raised significant concerns as the vessel remains unidentified after it allegedly rammed into the fishing boat in the Spratly Islands on January 30, 2025.

The FBCA Prince Elmo 2 set sail from Naic, Cavite, carrying eight fishermen, with the intention of conducting fishing activities around Lubang Island. Unfortunately, the fateful collision resulted in the rescue of five fishermen, while three others are still missing after 17 days at sea. The successful rescue was carried out by the MV Dong An, a passing Vietnamese cargo vessel, which located the survivors during its passage near the Spratly Islands and reported the incident to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Despite ongoing investigations, the identity of the vessel that struck the FBCA Prince Elmo 2 is still unknown, leaving officials perplexed. Lt. Commander Michael John Encina of the PCG revealed that survivors have been unable to provide specific details regarding the time of the incident, which would have aided tracking down the offending vessel through the Vessel Traffic Monitoring System (VTMS). The five rescued fishermen have cited a lack of precise recall due to their traumatic experience adrift at sea.

As speculation continues, questions arise regarding the possible involvement of a Chinese vessel, particularly in light of ongoing territorial disputes in the region. Although no specific claims have been made, the proximity of Chinese patrol boats to contentious fishing grounds heightens concerns. There have been similar incidents in the past involving foreign vessels and Filipino fishermen, intensifying the scrutiny over maritime safety and enforcement in these waters.

“If a Filipino citizen is killed by a willful act, that is, I think, very, very close to what we define as an act of war and therefore we will respond accordingly,

Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr.

The Coast Guard’s inability to swiftly identify the vessel raises concerns about transparency in the ongoing investigation. Critics question whether the delay stems from bureaucratic inefficiencies or broader diplomatic sensitivities that may impede a full and open account of events. As authorities continue their efforts to locate the missing fishermen, tensions regarding maritime jurisdiction and the safety of local fishing communities remain at the forefront of public discourse.

Senator Francis Tolentino called for urgent actions and highlighted the need for measures, such as the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Law, designed to protect Filipino fishermen and promote safer navigation in national waters. The lack of actionable information correlates with broader issues of trust and safety in maritime dealings, prompting discussions on whether improvements in transparency are necessary to restore faith among stakeholders.

As the search for answers continues, the plight of the fishermen serves as a sobering reminder of the perils faced by those who operate in the potentially dangerous waters of the West Philippine Sea.

1. Macairan, Evelyn. “Philippines Fishing Boat Rammed by Unknown Vessel in West Philippine Sea.” The Philippine Star, 20 Feb. 2025, http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/02/20/2422804/philippines-fishing-boat-rammed-unknown-vessel-west-philippine-sea.
2. Kabagani, Lade Jean. “Filipino Fishing Boat Rammed at Spratlys, Culprit Still Unidentified.” Daily Tribune, 20 Feb. 2025, https://tribune.net.ph/2025/02/20/filipino-fishing-boat-rammed-at-spratlys-culprit-still-unidentified.
3. Macairan, Evelyn. “PCG: Vessel in Philippine Boat Ramming Still Unknown.” The Philippine Star, 3 Mar. 2025, http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/03/03/pcg-vessel-philippine-boat-ramming-still-unknown.