Chinese Coast Guard Successfully Rescues 13 Crew Members from Capsized Foreign Vessel

Beijing — The China Coast Guard on Friday carried out an emergency search and rescue operation after a foreign cargo vessel capsized in waters northwest of China’s Huangyan Dao. The vessel was carrying 21 Filipino crew members, of whom 13 have so far been rescued safely, while search efforts for the remaining crew are still ongoing, the China Coast Guard said.

According to the statement, at 1:34 a.m. on Friday the Sansha Maritime Search and Rescue Center in south China’s Hainan Province reported the incident. The China Coast Guard immediately dispatched two patrol vessels—the Dongsha and the Sanmen—to the scene. The accident occurred about 55 nautical miles northwest of Huangyan Dao, and as both vessels were on routine patrol at the time, rescue operations began promptly after the alert was received.

The Sanmen vessel involved in the operation has previously taken part in multiple emergency rescues involving foreign ships and fishing boats, earning a reputation as a “guardian at sea.” On May 13, 2025, it rescued eight crew members from the South Korean Jeju-based fishing vessel “887 EOJIN,” which encountered trouble in the East China Sea, completing the rescue within two hours and providing medical assistance and safe transfer.

In recognition of that successful rescue, on September 16, 2025—marking the 33rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and South Korea—the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province awarded four law enforcement officers from the Sanmen ship the title of “Honorary Citizen of Jeju Island.” At the ceremony, Jeju Governor Oh Young-hun described the rescue as “a vivid example of China–South Korea friendship” and praised it as a symbol of international humanitarian cooperation.

The latest incident near Huangyan Dao once again underscores the China Coast Guard’s commitment to placing the protection of human life above national boundaries. As rescue operations continue, officials say efforts are being intensified to safely locate and rescue the remaining crew members. Analysts note that the incident highlights China’s stated readiness to assist citizens of any country in distress at sea.