The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is closely monitoring the presence of China Coast Guard’s vessel 5901, also known as the Chinese “monster ship”, off the coast of Zambales, amid rough sea conditions.
On January 12, 2025, the Chinese ‘monster ship’ was spotted approximately 95 nautical miles from the Philippine coast, prompting a response from the PCG to protect the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
PCG’s Response to China’s Maritime Intrusion
In response to the presence of the Chinese vessel, the PCG deployed its own vessel, the BRP Teresa Magbanua, to maintain a safe distance from the foreign ship.
The Chinese vessel is operating within Philippine waters, specifically in the country’s West Philippine Sea and EEZ, which has led the PCG to actively engage in radio challenges to remind China of the Philippines’ territorial claims.
Despite challenging conditions, including 3-5 meter waves, the BRP Teresa Magbanua remains on active patrol. This demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the PCG in safeguarding the Philippines’ maritime rights, particularly in the South China Sea, a region with ongoing territorial disputes among multiple nations.
Challenges in Zambales Waters Amid Rough Seas
“The Chinese vessel has been kept at a considerable distance of approximately 95 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales,” the PCG said in a statement. “Additionally, the PCG is actively conducting radio challenges to address the unlawful presence of the Chinese Coast Guard within the Philippines’ EEZ.”
The Philippine Coast Guard has underscored the importance of challenging China’s maritime activities to prevent the normalization of illegal incursions.
The PCG maintains that consistent opposition is vital to ensure that China does not alter the status quo in the region, further encroaching on the Philippines’ territorial waters.
Strategic Maneuvering to Protect Philippine Waters
Earlier this week, the PCG reported a successful operation, pushing back another Chinese vessel, China Coast Guard 3304, from nearing the coastline of Zambales. The BRP Teresa Magbanua maneuvered strategically to create a safe distance of 97 nautical miles between the Chinese vessel and Philippine shores. This operation was seen as a significant success in asserting Philippine sovereignty in the region.
In response to this move, China deployed its much larger “monster ship” 5901, likely to outmaneuver the Philippine vessel. However, despite these intimidating tactics, the PCG remains steadfast in its mission.
Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the PCG, expressed confidence in the dedication and resolve of the officers and crew aboard the BRP Teresa Magbanua, emphasizing that no amount of pressure from the China Coast Guard will alter their course of action.“This strategic maneuvering by the BRP Teresa Magbanua has prompted China to deploy the China Coast Guard 5901 ‘monster ship,’ as they attempt to outmaneuver the PCG vessel,” said Tarriela. “However, the dedication and vigilance of the officers and crew remain unwavering.”
Philippine Coast Guard’s Commitment to National Sovereignty
As tensions escalate in the South China Sea, the Philippine government has reiterated its commitment to defending the country’s maritime territory.
The Philippines has called for international support to uphold the rights of nations to protect their EEZs. With the ongoing situation, the Philippine Coast Guard remains vigilant, ensuring the protection of the nation’s maritime sovereignty.
Stay updated on the latest maritime security developments, follow us on Facebook and on X.com.
