The government will not allocate funds for the repairs of BRP Teresa Magbanua, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
“The ship is still under warranty from Mitsubishi, so they will be responsible for the repairs, and our local shipbuilders in Danao will be undertaking the work,” stated PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Arman Balilo.
BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) is set to undergo repairs for a duration of two to three months due to damage sustained from Chinese ships ramming into it while it was patrolling Escoda Shoal.
The Magbanua has returned to Danao, Cebu, after being deployed at Escoda Shoal since April.
“Our countrymen have the capability to perform repairs … so that is where they will undertake it, I understand she is still under warranty so the company that built her, Mitsubishi, will handle it,” Balilo added.
Shipwrights are currently addressing significant damage, which includes large holes and dents in the vessel’s superstructure and hull.
In addition to the Magbanua, two smaller Coast Guard patrol vessels, BRP Bagacay and BRP Cape Engaño, are also undergoing repairs in Cebu after being damaged by Chinese ships at Escoda Shoal on August 19.
