PCG issues radio challenge anew vs Chinese vessel off Zambales coast

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) issued a radio challenge against a Chinese vessel illegally sailing off the coast of Zambales, the coast guard’s spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea reported on Friday.

In a post on X, Commodore Jay Tarriela said the BRP Teresa Magbanua MRRV 9701 remains deployed in the vicinity amid the “unwavering presence” of Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 3304.

“You are advised that you are currently sailing within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) approximately 75 nautical miles west of Kapones point, Zambales, Philippines. In accordance with Republic Act 12064, the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law and Sea of which you are a signatory state, and the 2016 arbitral award, you do not possess any legal authority to patrol within the Philippines exclusive economic zone. You’re directed to depart immediately and notify us (of) your intentions,” the PCG said in its radio challenge.

Tarriela said “the continued vigilance of BRP Teresa Magbanua serves as a proactive measure to ensure that Filipino fishermen can carry out their activities without the threat of harassment or intimidation”.

Just last week, CCG’s largest vessel called ‘Monster Ship’ was sighted off Zambales inside the country’s EEZ.

The PCG said the vessel left the country’s territorial waters on Wednesday, Jan. 8, but has tracked another Chinese vessel heading to the monster ship’s previous location.

On Thursday, Jan. 9, the PCG said Beijing’s vessel was replaced by another ship in the afternoon.

“The deployment of the PCG’s white ship underscores a commitment to monitoring and maintaining a visible presence to deter illegal activities by the Chinese Coast Guard while adhering to principles of restraint and non-provocation,” said Tarriela.