Chinese vessel CCG-5901 near Zambales despite Philippines' demands

The Chinese Coast Guard vessel 5901 remains near Zambales despite repeated demands from the Philippines for its withdrawal.

For the past two weeks, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has been monitoring CCG-5901's illegal activities and issued multiple radio challenges to the ship, which continues to operate within 60-70 nautical miles of Zambales' coast.

Commodore Jay Tarriela of the PCG stated that despite persistent communications from the Philippines, the Chinese vessel has continued its unlawful operations in violation of international regulations, including the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and UNCLOS.

The Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs has issued a diplomatic protest against CCG-5901's presence, while several warships of the Philippine Navy conducted exercises during a sovereignty patrol near Bajo de Masinloc to enhance operational proficiency in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

China's actions towards the Philippines and Taiwan have drawn attention from the US; President-elect Donald Trump’s Secretary of State nominee Sen. Marco Rubio highlighted these issues during his confirmation hearing.

The PCG emphasizes that freedom of navigation does not permit illegal patrols within the EEZ and urges China to respect Philippine sovereignty in these waters.