Chinese Research Vessels Detected in Philippine Waters, Prompting Vigilance.

QUEZON CITY: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has reported the incursion of two Chinese marine scientific research (MSR) ships into the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ) near Siargao and Davao Oriental. This development raises concerns over the frequent presence of foreign vessels in Philippine waters. According to Philippines News Agency, the PCG, during a forum in Quezon City, revealed that three MSR ships - the Xiang Yang Hong 3, Jia Geng, and Xiang Yang Hong 10 - were initially detected about 257 nautical miles northeast of Santa Ana, Cagayan, outside the Philippine EEZ on November 17. Notably, the Jia Geng was seen within the nation's 200 nautical-mile EEZ near Davao Oriental on November 14, while the Xiang Yang Hong 10 was observed east of Siargao Island within the EEZ on November 20. Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, emphasized the necessity for foreign vessels conducting marine scientific research to seek clearance from the Philippines, highlighting the n ation's sovereign rights to exploit and explore its EEZ. He assured that the PCG would report the ships' presence to the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, leaving further diplomatic actions to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Despite the vessels not lingering in the area, the PCG continues to monitor and document their movements. As of Saturday morning, the ships were spotted near the Philippine EEZ border, approximately 211 nautical miles off Siargao Island. Although currently outside the EEZ, their previous entries warrant continued observation. The Chinese Embassy in Manila and the DFA have yet to provide comments on the situation. In a related concern, Commodore Tarriela noted the persistent issue of Chinese maritime militias near Pag-asa Island, with over 80 Chinese vessels reported in the territorial sea on November 27. This activity, potentially influenced by adverse weather conditions, remains a significant concern for the Philippine government. The PCG actively challenges th e entry of these Chinese vessels through radio communications. Recent PCG monitoring indicates a reduction in the number of Chinese vessels around Pag-asa Island, decreasing to 30, yet the situation continues to be closely scrutinized.