PCG monitors Chinese vessel near Scarborough Shoal, issues radio challenges

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is monitoring a Chinese coast guard vessel near Scarborough Shoal and has issued radio challenges to other Chinese vessels off Zambales.

BRP Teresa Magbanua, the largest PCG patrol ship, continues surveillance off Zambales after challenging several Chinese ships spotted approximately 70 to 80 nautical miles west of Capones on Thursday, January 9.

The PCG asserts through radio communications that Chinese vessels have no legal authority to patrol within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and directs them to depart immediately in accordance with international law.

Commodore Jay Tarriela emphasized that allowing Chinese ships to go unchallenged may lead to assertions of control over these waters, stressing the need for continued vigilance under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s policy.

The deployment of BRP Teresa Magbanua aims to ensure Filipino fishers can carry out their activities without harassment or intimidation while adhering to principles of restraint and non-provocation.