3 Chinese vessels seen near PH economic zone

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed the recurring presence of three Chinese Maritime Scientific Research Vessels (MSRVs) within and near the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ), sparking concerns over unauthorized activities in the country's waters.

The vessels, identified as Xiang Yang Hong 3, Jia Geng, and Xiang Yang Hong 10, were initially detected on Nov. 17, 2024, at a location 257 nautical miles northeast of Santa Ana, Cagayan. While this is outside the Philippines' 200-nautical-mile EEZ, subsequent monitoring revealed their encroachment into Philippine waters.

The PCG observed these vessels crossed into the EEZ prior to Nov. 17. On Nov. 14, they were near Davao Oriental, and on Nov. 20, were detected off Siargao Island. Currently, the vessels are positioned 211 nautical miles east of Siargao Island, according to PCG reports.

The PCG has not reported any formal communication from the vessels regarding their presence, which raises questions about compliance with international maritime protocols.

Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to which both the Philippines and China are signatories, research vessels must secure prior consent before conducting any activity within another state's EEZ.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is closely coordinating with the PCG to verify the nature and purpose of the vessels' activities.

In recent years, Chinese vessels have frequently been reported in Philippine waters, often escalating tensions between the two nations.

The PCG said it would continue to monitor the vessels' movements and provide updates. The DFA has yet to comment on whether a formal diplomatic protest will be filed.

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