On November 26, 2024, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully conducted an operation that led to the discovery of thirteen undocumented Chinese nationals aboard the dredger vessel Harvest 89 that is anchored in Mariveles, Bataan.
Around noon yesterday, the agent of Harvest 89 notified the PCG of the vessel’s upcoming departure to its next port of call in San Felipe, Zambales, for dredging operations. However, when the PCG attempted to board the vessel for a Pre-Departure Inspection and to secure the Master’s Declaration of Safe Departure (MDSD), the agent denied entry, claiming that all necessary documentation was in order. This prompted personnel from the Coast Guard Substation in Limay, Bataan, to perform a more detailed inspection.
Upon boarding, the PCG composite team discovered nine undocumented Chinese crew members, all without proper documentation. Further investigations revealed that the crew manifest included only eight Filipino crew members. During a follow-up inspection, an additional four undocumented Chinese nationals were found hiding, bringing the total to thirteen.
The names of the undocumented Chinese nationals are:
1. LUO XIAN MING, 30 June 1968, Age 56
2. JIANG HAI GNG, 08 July 1976, Age 48
3. CHEN YU, 06 May 1984, Age 40
4. ZHU ZHENGLI, 11 June 1965, Age 59
5. ZHOU ZHI, 13 December 1976, Age 48
6. ZHOU CHAN GGUI, 27 December 1973, Age 51
7. LI CHUN LIANG, 14 July 1979, Age 45
8. GONG QING SHAN, 24 January 1976, Age 48
9. WANG YU MAN, 08 April 1973, Age 51
10. WEI XUE YU, 07 July 1975, Age 49
11. ZHOU JIB IN, 08 December 1975, Age 49
12. CHENG QING YU, 12 May 1976, Age 48
13. HUA MING QING, 13 April 1974, Age 50
Additionally, a uniform resembling that of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) was found on board, raising significant concerns regarding the intentions of these undocumented individuals.
The PCG is currently coordinating with relevant government agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the presence of these Chinese nationals. Efforts are underway to pursue legal action and ensure the custody of these undocumented individuals.
This operation underscores the Philippine Coast Guard’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding our maritime borders and ensuring the safety and security of our waters. We will continue our vigilant inspections and take necessary actions to address any violations of maritime laws.
