CCG shadows, blocks, rams BRP Cabra off Zambales; Chinese research near Batanes

On Sunday, April 6, a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel shadowed and blocked the Philippine Coast Guard's BRP Cabra off Zambales, leading to a near-collision incident.

The CCG conducted 'reckless and dangerous maneuvers' on Monday, April 7, attempting to ram the BRP Cabra multiple times throughout the afternoon, as confirmed by the PCG in a statement on Tuesday.

Despite these aggressive actions, the Philippine Coast Guard successfully pushed the Chinese vessel farther away using superior maneuverability with their smaller, faster vessel, CCG-21612.

China's persistent patrolling tactics closer to Philippine shores indicate a resurgence of activity following recent reduced presence in the area, which Manila brands as escalatory and unlawful under both national and international law.

Additionally, since April 2, the PCG detected a Chinese research vessel operating within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone near Batanes, an action also being challenged by Philippine authorities.