When the Philippine Coast Guard detected the presence of the Chinese Coast Guard vessel 5901, positioned 54 nautical miles off the coast of Capones Island, Zambales, using Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection (DVD) system, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, the PCG Commandant, promptly dispatched BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) along with a PCG Helicopter and PCG Caravan to verify the incursion and assert their presence.
By around 1700H this afternoon, MRRV 4409 and the PCG Caravan confirmed that the Chinese vessel was indeed in the area identified by the DVD. The PCG vessel and aircraft continuously challenged the presence of the Chinese Coast Guard, emphasizing that it was operating within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in accordance with the Philippine Maritime Zones Law and UNCLOS.
As of 2000H this evening, BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) continues to monitor the Chinese vessel as it heads west, now 85 nautical miles away from Zambales.
The PCG remains committed to closely monitoring this Chinese Coast Guard vessel to ensure that Filipino fishermen can operate safely and without harassment within our Exclusive Economic Zone.
https://x.com/jaytaryela/status/1875549500233937297
