9701 Vigilantly Challenges Illegal Presence of Chinese Coast Guard Vessels
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua, has successfully conducted ongoing monitoring of the illegal presence of Chinese Coast Guard vessels exhibiting erratic movements along the coastline of Zambales Province, approximately 70-80 nautical miles from shore.
In a demonstration of their commitment to protecting the country’s maritime sovereignty, the crew of the BRP Teresa Magbanua persistently radio challenged the Chinese vessels, informing them that they are operating within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The PCG referenced Republic Act 12064, the “Philippine Maritime Zones Act,” as well as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, of which China is a signatory, and the 2016 Arbitral Award. The crew made it clear that the Chinese vessels do not possess any legal authority to patrol within the Philippines’ EEZ and directed them to depart immediately.
Of particular note during today’s operations was the replacement of Chinese Coast Guard vessel 3103 by vessel 3304 in the afternoon. Despite this change, the objective of the Chinese deployment remains the same: to assert normalization and legitimacy in these waters. The PCG is steadfast in its mission to counteract these efforts and prevent any normalization of illegal deployment of CCG vessels.
Under the guidance of Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, the PCG will continue to vigilantly monitor the illegal presence of the Chinese Coast Guard while employing a measured response that prioritizes the Philippines’ national interests and aims to avoid escalation.
https://x.com/jaytaryela/status/1877346401669304768
