Philippines Reports Illegal Presence of Another Chinese Coast Guard Vessel

Synopsis

The Philippines Coast Guard disclosed the unlawful presence of a Chinese vessel in its Exclusive Economic Zone, asserting its maritime rights and international laws. This incident highlights rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region amidst China's assertive military activities.

Key Takeaways

Philippines Coast Guard reported illegal Chinese vessel presence.
PCG affirms commitment to maritime rights and safety.
China's military activities raise regional concerns.
Japan and Philippines strengthen defense ties.
Assertive actions in South China Sea noted.

Manila, Feb 27 (NationPress) Unveiling yet another instance of escalating Chinese assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, the Philippines Coast Guard (PCG) reported on Thursday the unlawful presence of a Chinese Coast Guard vessel within the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone.

The PCG emphasized its commitment to safeguarding the maritime rights of the Philippines, ensuring the safety of Filipino fishermen, upholding international law, and aiding in the de-escalation of tensions in the West Philippine Sea. They communicated via radio to the Chinese vessel that its presence infringes upon the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

“Following the directive from Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua, is firmly asserting the Philippines' sovereign rights due to the unlawful presence of the China Coast Guard vessel 3301. This vessel is currently positioned approximately 105-110 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales, within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ),” stated Jay Tarriela, the spokesperson for the PCG.

“In spite of challenging maritime conditions, with wave heights reaching 2-4 meters, the BRP Teresa Magbanua has remained resolute in its mission for over a week. The PCG is devoted to upholding the maritime rights of the Philippines, ensuring the safety of Filipino fishermen, maintaining international law, and contributing to the de-escalation of tensions in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.

China's persistent military activities and expanding influence in the disputed South China Sea have raised significant concerns for the Philippines. Previously, the Philippine Coast Guard condemned “dangerous” maneuvers by a Chinese Navy helicopter, which flew within three meters (10 feet) of a surveillance flight carrying journalists over the contested Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.

On Monday, Japan and the Philippines reached an agreement to establish a strategic dialogue between their defense forces, considering the increasing security threats posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region. Both countries shared perspectives on regional situations, including the East and South China Seas, and committed to vigorously oppose any attempt to unilaterally alter the status quo by force or any actions that escalate tensions.