In-depth probe into foreign dredging vessel off Bataan underway —PCG

The Philippine Coast Guard is doing an in-depth investigation into the presence of an unauthorized Chinese dredging vessel off Orion, Bataan.

PCG spokesman Commodore Armand Balilo told Super Radyo dzBB's "Dobol B sa News TV" that the vessel, which has been spotted in the area since January 27, turned off its automatic identification system (AIS), an obvious violation of Maritime protocols covering foreign vessels.

Balilo said the vessel was found to have two crew members onboard, both are Cambodians.

According to Balilo, coastguard record shows that the vessel was given a departure clearance by the Aparri PCG.

He added that the PCG found no cargo on the vessel, but pointed out that its unauthorized presence in the area is being investigated. —LBG, GMA News