BRP Teresa Magbanua on Sunday departed from Escoda Shoal with her mission accomplished, National Maritime Council (NMC) Chairperson Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said in a statement.
“After more than five months at sea, where she carried out her sentinel duties against overwhelming odds, BRP Teresa Magbanua is now sailing back to her homeport with her mission accomplished,” Secretary Bersamin said.
The official emphasized the challenges BRP Teresa Magbanua encountered during her mission.
“During her deployment at Escoda Shoal, she challenged an encirclement by a larger flotilla of intruders, battled inclement weather, with her crew surviving on diminished daily provisions,” he said.
“What made this possible is the determination and dedication of the men and women on board, who crewed her in the finest tradition of our Philippine Coast Guard sailors, and in honor of the heroine for whom she was named,” he added.
The MNC chief further explained why the vessel is returning to its homeport.
“This repositioning will allow the Magbanua to address the medical needs of some of her crew, undergo needed repairs, and allow her crew to enjoy a well-deserved furlough and reunion with their loved ones,” he said.
He said the ship would resume performing its duty of defending the country after all the mentioned undertakings are completed.
“After she has been resupplied and repaired, and her crew recharged, she will be in tiptop shape to resume her mission, along with other PCG and AFP assets, as defenders of our sovereignty.” | PND
