The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Monday said it continues its “vigilant monitoring” of the China Coast Guard’s (CCG) “monster ship” inside the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
In a statement, the PCG said the Chinese vessel is not engaging in “innocent passage but rather asserts that it is conducting a law enforcement operation, claiming jurisdiction over these waters as belonging to the People’s Republic of China.”
“In response, the crew of BRP Cabra has remained steadfast in challenging this assertion, diligently tailing and shadowing CCG-5901 to uphold Philippine sovereign rights,” PCG said.
“The Philippine Coast Guard reaffirms its dedication to protecting the nation’s maritime interests and will continue to monitor the activities of the CCG’s illegitimate presence,” it added.
The Chinese vessel with registration number 5901 was first spotted 54 nautical miles away from Capones Island, Zambales on Saturday.
PCG reported that it has moved near Lubang Island in Occidental Mindoro on Monday morning.
According to National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya, Philippine forces continue to conduct radio challenges to the Chinese ship.
The PCG earlier said the Chinese vessel’s presence is a ploy to intimidate Filipino fishermen.
—Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News
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