Maritime patrol disrupted during MDA flight
China signal jamming allegations have escalated tensions in the West Philippine Sea after the Philippine Coast Guard reported satellite disruption near Bajo de Masinloc on February 23, 2026. According to Commodore Jay Tarriela, Starlink connectivity aboard PCG and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources vessels repeatedly failed when operating within 24 nautical miles of the shoal. The disruption occurred during a maritime domain awareness flight supporting 35 Filipino fishing boats in their traditional fishing ground inside the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone.
Chinese vessels monitored and radio challenges issued
During the patrol, three China Coast Guard ships were monitored 33.6 nautical miles from Bajo de Masinloc, while a PLA Navy warship, hull number 554, issued radio challenges to the PCG aircraft about 75 nautical miles off Zambales. BRP Cabra and BRP Gabriela Silang were deployed to assist the subsidy mission providing fuel and ice to fishermen. Tarriela also reported water cannon systems being opened by Chinese vessels, describing it as a possible threat. He stated this was the first recorded Starlink disruption during such an operation and confirmed the PCG will adjust operational measures to prevent further signal interference.
