PCG challenges Chinese research vessel in PH EEZ

A Chinese research vessel, the Zhong Shan Da Xue, was observed operating northeast of Batanes province within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spotted the vessel approximately 78 nautical miles northeast of Itbayat, Batanes at around 8 a.m. on Tuesday, April 15.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan deployed an Islander aircraft to challenge the vessel's presence.

Despite multiple radio challenges from the PCG aircraft, the Zhong Shan Da Xue did not respond.

PCG Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Jay Tarriela stated that the vessel's activities lacked authority within the Philippine EEZ and constituted a violation of UNCLOS and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act.

This incident marks the second time the PCG has challenged the Zhong Shan Da Xue, with a previous deployment on April 7.

The 114-meter long, 2,300-ton Chinese research ship departed China on March 31 and entered the Philippine EEZ on April 2.