According to Commodore Jay Tarriela, a PCG vessel received multiple radio challenges from Chinese vessels during a routine maritime patrol in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc.
A Chinese Navy warship issued two separate radio challenges to the Philippine Coast Guard during the patrol. In addition, three Chinese Coast Guard vessels also challenged the PCG on the radio.
He further stated that at the time of the radio exchanges, the Chinese warship was positioned approximately 75 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales.
The routine maritime patrols are conducted to support Filipino fishermen and assert the Philippines’ maritime rights within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in accordance with international law.
