PCG monitors 3 Chinese research vessels in WPS

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is monitoring three Chinese research vessels, Bei Diao 996, Xiang Yang Hong 10, and Zhuhai Yun, which were detected in the West Philippine Sea.

These vessels were observed near Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) and the waters of Palawan, raising suspicions of illegal marine scientific research activities.

Separately, the PCG also encountered and challenged the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 05, which had re-entered the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on July 31 after a prior excursion.

The Xiang Yang Hong 05 did not respond when challenged by the PCG during a maritime domain awareness patrol.

This vessel is known to have a history of supporting China's People's Liberation Army Navy operations and has raised concerns due to its operations in sensitive maritime zones.