China protests PH Coast Guard presence at Escoda Shoal

China has lodged a formal protest with the Philippines over the prolonged presence of the Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) BRP Teresa Magbanua at Escoda Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that China demands the immediate withdrawal of the Philippine vessel and cessation of what it deems as infringement activities, emphasizing the need to uphold the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC).

Escoda Shoal is located approximately 70 nautical miles off Palawan mainland within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

The BRP Teresa Magbanua was deployed in mid-April amid reported Chinese reclamation activities, and China's Global Times claims that the Philippines plans to send another ship to join it at Escoda Shoal.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela dismissed these claims as 'unfounded' and emphasized that Manila's deployment is legal under international law.

Tarriela also noted that Chinese maritime militia vessels are gathering in the area without engaging in fishing activities, suggesting an increased presence to counter Philippine operations.