The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) sang the national anthem “Lupang Hinirang” while in a standoff with Taiwanese Coast Guard (TCG) after the latter declared some parts of Batanes part of their territory.

The incident took place around 2:00 am on June 6 when MCS 3004 spotted the Taiwanese vessel 23 nautical miles east of Itbayat, Batanes. The said vessel which was double the size of PSG first splashed its lights to the Philippine vessel.

TCG claimed that the ocean was part of the Taiwan exclusive economic zone when asked by PCG Commander Angel Viliran the former’s intention for intruding the Philippine territory. The two counties are currently locked in a sea row in the West Philippine Sea.

TCG insisted on their territorial claim but the Philippine Coast Guard stood firm on their stance.

In the exchange, TCG said: “This is Taiwanese Coast Guard. We are in the EEZ.” in which the PCG responded by saying: “No, it’s not your territory. This is east of Itbayat, 23 nautical miles of east of Itbayat. You do not have any business staying here.”

When the foreign vessel refused to leave minutes after, MCS 3004 crew started singing the Philippine national anthem to show courage and draw strength knowing that they were the only Filipino vessel patrolling around the area and that they had no contact with the headquarters during that time.

Here’s the video of the Philippine Coast Guard singing the anthem.

Source: ABS CBNNews

TCG later decided to leave after the commander warned it will call the Taiwan government.