THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported on Friday that it issued a radio challenge against the China Coast Guard’s (CCG) massive vessel, known as the “monster ship,” which was spotted conducting unauthorized operations within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
According to a statement from PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela, the CCG vessel 5901 was observed operating unlawfully 60 to 70 nautical miles from Philippine territory.
Despite repeated radio communications from the PCG’s BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301), the Chinese vessel reportedly continued its activities.
The PCG reaffirmed that the Philippines’ authority over these waters is grounded in the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
It emphasized its commitment to protecting the nation’s maritime rights and interests.
The so-called “monster ship,” recognized as the largest coast guard ship globally, has been observed near Philippine waters multiple times.
It was initially seen 54 nautical miles off Capones Island in Zambales, then repositioned near Lubang Island in Occidental Mindoro, and later stationed 97 nautical miles from Zambales.
National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) spokesperson Jonathan Malaya confirmed that the Philippine government had filed a diplomatic protest against the ship’s presence.
“We have formally requested and demanded that China withdraw this vessel. We are now awaiting their response,” Malaya said during a press briefing.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy conducted sovereignty patrols and unilateral exercises near Bajo de Masinloc, 124 nautical miles from Masinloc, Zambales, to assert the country’s rights over its waters amid the ongoing presence of the CCG vessel.
Public support for the government’s efforts remains high, with a recent OCTA Research survey revealing that 84% of Filipinos back the assertion of maritime rights in the disputed waters.
On the international stage, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, during his confirmation hearing as secretary of State nominee, highlighted China’s aggressive actions toward the Philippines and Taiwan.
Rubio specifically mentioned the “monster ship,” urging China to de-escalate tensions in the region to avoid forcing the U.S. to increase its focus on such disputes.