Chinese vessel CCG 5901 continues patrols near Bajo de Masinloc

Filipino fishermen in Zambales are increasingly cautious due to the continued trespassing activities of the Chinese vessel CCG 5901, known as the 'monster ship,' near Bajo de Masinloc.

The CCG 5901, a 165-meter vessel, has not left the country's maritime territory and continues its illegal patrols near Bajo de Masinloc as of press time.

Chinese forces, including the coast guard and maritime militia, have been conducting coordinated patrols within 15 nautical miles of the country's territorial seas.

Local fishermen and organizations in Zambales are concerned about the ongoing threat posed by Chinese vessels and the risk of accidental encounters.

The Philippine Coast Guard has been confronting the Monster Ship and other Chinese vessels entering the country's exclusive economic zone with persistent radio challenges.

Chinese commercial fishing vessels have also been present in the area, though they have not yet directly threatened local fishermen according to reports.

Leonardo Cuaresma, president of the New Masinloc Fishermen Association, emphasized the fear among fishermen that their boats might be sunk by adversaries in the West Philippine Sea.