As waves crashed against the hull of BRP Cabra, Seawoman First Class (SW1) Cristine G Himaya’s voice echoed across the contested waters of the West Philippine Sea.

“China Coast Guard vessel, 3103, this is Philippine Coast Guard vessel, BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409). You are advised that you are currently sailing within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone…”, she said during an encounter captured on video during one of her missions. 

“You do not possess any legal authority to patrol within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. You are directed to depart immediately and notify us of your intention…”

Her calm yet firm radio challenge, directed at a much larger Chinese Coast Guard vessel, carried the weight of Philippine sovereignty. Despite standing only five feet tall, her voice commanded attention. This moment encapsulated the mission of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)’s all-female unit — the Angels of the Sea.

Cristine, a resident of General Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite, is one of 81 women who were chosen and recruited by the Philippine Coast Guard four years ago to serve as the country’s voice in the contested waters of the West Philippine Sea.

Deployed on rotational missions, they are tasked with issuing radio challenges to foreign vessels intruding into the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The PCG launched the Angels of the Sea program in 2021, believing that women, often perceived as non-threatening, would be effective in de-escalating tensions while upholding maritime law.

“We practiced radio communication — how to establish contact, transmit messages clearly, and speak in a way that prevents misunderstandings or hostility. That’s why women were chosen for this role — we are trained to use a calm and composed tone,” Cristine told Maritime Fairtrade in Filipino during a one-on-one interview.

Former rear admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, the program’s creator, envisioned these female officers as a force capable of asserting the country’s rights while reducing hostility at sea. “There are things only women can do. Crisis management is one of them,” Gavan, who is now the PCG’s commandant, said at that time. 

For years, the Philippines has faced relentless incursions by Chinese maritime forces, with Filipino fishermen harassed and China strengthening its presence in disputed waters. The Angels of the Sea are not just standing watch, they are pushing back.

Cristine issuing a radio challenge to Chinese vessel 3103, advising it is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone off Capones Point, Zambales, and directing it to depart immediately. Photo credit: Philippine Coast Guard

A mission of courage and sacrifice

At 31 years old, Cristine is not just a Coast Guard member, she is also a wife and mother of two young children. Her decision to join the Angels of the Sea was not an easy one.

“There was hesitation at first because I was afraid — I didn’t know what would happen to me,” she admitted. “But as a Coast Guard, we swore an oath to defend our country’s sovereignty, so I wanted to prove to myself that I could fulfill my duty to our nation.”

Her husband, though initially worried, has been a pillar of support. “He always tells me, ‘Be careful, be strong, and pray.’”

The challenges of patrolling the open sea for weeks at a time, away from her family, are immense. Communication with loved ones is limited, and the unpredictable waters of the West Philippine Sea can be harsh.

“The rough seas are the toughest part. You may feel like throwing up, but you never give up,” she said with a laugh.

Each mission lasts about 12 to 14 days, with two female radio operators deployed per patrol. Of the 81 women in the program, only 20 are actively conducting radio challenges, engaging with Chinese vessels in high-stakes encounters, according to Cristine. 

When asked if she feels safer now compared to before the program was launched, Cristine paused before answering.

“I think the situation has become calmer. Our presence has been effective. But of course, we remain cautious.”

Power of a woman’s voice at sea

The PCG’s approach to maritime defense is unique relying not on aggression, but on firm diplomacy.

“Our presence has been effective. In my experience, Chinese forces are not overly aggressive when we engage them,” Cristine observed.

Asked how important diplomacy is in preventing tensions when engaging with foreign vessels, the female radio operator said: “It’s very important. It helps prevent tension. We always speak calmly during radio challenges to avoid miscommunication or misunderstandings.”

Their training focuses on clear and composed messaging that leaves no room for misinterpretation. The Angels use only English in their challenges, but the PCG has started offering Mandarin classes to enhance communication. 

“Right now, only a few of us are being trained at a time because not everyone can be accommodated at once,” said Cristine. 

Despite their calm approach, she admitted that Chinese vessels don’t always respond to their directives. 

“Sometimes, they answer back, and we continue exchanging messages, but eventually, they stop.”

Cristine also shared how encounters with foreign vessels follow strict protocol.

“When we encounter large foreign vessels, we follow a procedure — we ask questions and consult the proper authorities. We follow their directives.”

While she has yet to experience an extremely tense situation, she knows that the risk is always present. “If a foreign vessel makes an aggressive move, we call for backup. But so far, everything has been manageable.”

Beyond defense: Aiding Filipino fishermen

Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea have seen their livelihoods slip away as Chinese vessels block them from venturing farther out to sea.

While the Angels of the Sea are primarily tasked with enforcing maritime laws, their mission extends to humanitarian efforts.

“When a boat breaks down, we assist them in getting home safely. We either tow their boats or bring them aboard our vessel. We also provide first aid if they are injured.”

However, they must also caution fishermen against approaching restricted areas. 

“We advise them not to go near the (Scarborough) shoal directly because Chinese forces will block them. Our concern is their safety.”

Cristine shared that while fishermen are frustrated with the territorial situation, they understand that safety must come first. 

“They don’t insist on entering restricted areas because they know the risks. Our job is to ensure they are safe.”

For centuries, maritime law enforcement has been a male-dominated field. However, the Angels of the Sea are challenging this norm. Cristine shared her pride in representing Filipino women in a space traditionally dominated by men, especially amid rising regional tensions.

“As a woman, I can do what men do. As the saying goes, ‘I’m not just a woman — I am a woman,’” Cristine declared proudly. “It has given me a sense of fulfillment — being part of this unit is an honor,” she added. 

The all-female unit is part of the PCG’s initiative to empower women, break gender barriers, and promote equality in maritime defense.

However, the program has faced criticism from feminist groups who argue that it reinforces stereotypes by assigning women roles based on their perceived “softer” voices. The PCG, on the other hand, sees it as a way to empower women in law enforcement and expand their roles in national defense.

Cristine agreed: “The Angels of the Sea are more than just voices at sea. We are defenders of our nation’s sovereignty.”

Meanwhile, PCG spokesperson Commodore Algier Ricafrente confirmed to Maritime Fairtrade that the program is set to expand.

“The Philippine Coast Guard, through the Coast Guard Weapons, Communications, Electronics, and Information Systems Command, is committed to expanding its workforce, with plans to grow its personnel to over 20,000,” Ricafrente said.

“As part of this initiative, the PCG aims to recruit and train additional female radio operators to strengthen the ‘Angels of the Sea’ program. In fact, plans are already in place to convene a new class this year,” he added.

Ricafrente emphasized that the continued expansion “reflects the PCG’s dedication to enhancing maritime communication capabilities and ensuring operational excellence.”

Cristine, who has spent years patrolling the West Philippine Sea, reflected on what she has learned. 

“I’ve learned to be brave and to protect our country’s territory. I’ve also learned the importance of diplomacy — how calm and clear communication can prevent conflict.”

She also offered advice to other women considering a similar path. 

“They must be brave. This is not an easy job. They must be ready and should never show fear when facing foreign forces.” 

As tensions in the West Philippine Sea continue, the role of the Angels of the Sea remains crucial. “I am always ready. Para sa bayan (For the country),” Cristine said.

With their voices cutting through the waves, these women are not only defending the nation’s sovereignty but also proving that courage knows no gender.

Top photo credit: Liz Lagniton. Seawoman First Class Cristine G Himaya, a member of the Philippine Coast Guard’s Angels of the Sea.