- Chinese Coast Guard's "Monster" Vessel Intrudes Philippine Waters
- Philippine Coast Guard Challenges Chinese "Monster" Ship in Exclusive Economic Zone
- David vs. Goliath: PCG Challenges Chinese "Monster" in WPS
Concerns over China's assertiveness in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) have been reignited after the "Monster," the world's largest coast guard vessel, was detected near Zambales on Saturday, January 4th. This massive 12,000-ton, 165-meter ship, officially known as CCG-5901, was spotted just 54 nautical miles off the coast of Capones Island, well within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), utilizing its newly acquired dark vessel detection (DVD) system from Canada, quickly responded to the presence of the intimidating vessel. PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan mobilized BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409), a multi-role response vessel, along with a helicopter and a PCG Caravan patrol aircraft to confirm the location and challenge the Chinese vessel.
In a video released to the media, a crew member of BRP Cabra can be heard issuing a radio challenge to "The Monster," firmly stating:
"China Coast Guard CCG-5901, this is BRP Cabra, MRRV-4409. We are reminding you that you are within 72.6 nautical miles west by the south of Silanguin, Zambales, inside the Philippine exclusive economic zone. Please leave this area immediately! Over."
While the Chinese vessel eventually moved westward, away from Zambales, the incident has sparked concerns about potential violations of international law and Philippine sovereignty. Maritime security analyst Ray Powell, who first reported the Monster's presence, described its actions as an "intrusive patrol" aimed at asserting China's claim over Scarborough Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc.
This isn't the first time the Monster has been observed in the area. Powell noted that the vessel was also seen near Scarborough Shoal on New Year's Day, accompanied by other CCG ships and maritime militia. Scarborough Shoal, located within the Philippines' EEZ, has been under China's control since 2012 following a tense standoff.
China Coast Guard ship CCG-5901, regarded as the largest CG vessel in the world and nicknamed "The Monster", was detected by PH Coast Guard at 54NM off the coast of Capones Island in Zambales on Jan. 4, triggering concerns of potential violation of PH sovereignty. @manilabulletin pic.twitter.com/f7T9g6JSJo
— Martin Sadongdong (@MB_mrtnsdngdng) January 5, 2025
Despite these challenges, the PCG remains steadfast in its commitment to protect Filipino fishermen and uphold the country's maritime rights. Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for the WPS, emphasized that the PCG will continue to closely monitor the situation and ensure the safety of Filipinos operating within their EEZ.
This latest incident underscores the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea and highlights the need for continued vigilance and diplomatic efforts to uphold international law and protect the sovereignty of the Philippines.
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