The Philippine Navy on Monday said it was relieved that Filipino crew members of the cargo vessel MV Devon Bay were rescued at sea, but emphasized that such action is a basic duty of all coast guards and does not erase China’s past coercive activities in the West Philippine Sea. Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said at a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City that rendering assistance to distressed mariners is mandated under international maritime norms.

Dumalag, G., & Subingsubing, K. (2026, January 28). Navy: China vessel saving PH crew doesn't erase past actions. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. A4.