Philippine Coast Guard Tracks Chinese Vessels Near Scarborough Shoal, Aircraft Faces Radio Challenges
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has confirmed monitoring several vessels belonging to the China Coast Guard and the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, during a recent maritime domain awareness flight operation. This development highlights ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, with the PCG asserting its commitment to uphold international law and protect Filipino fishermen in the area.
Detailed Monitoring of Chinese Maritime Assets
According to official reports from the PCG, the surveillance flight identified multiple Chinese vessels operating near the shoal. Specifically, two China Coast Guard ships were observed: one located approximately 84.6 nautical miles west of Capones Island, and another positioned about 7.8 nautical miles southeast of Bajo de Masinloc. In addition, the PCG spotted two PLAN warships, identified by hull numbers 553 and 909, along with five other maritime vessels believed to be part of the Chinese maritime militia. These militia vessels were detected at distances ranging from 6 to nearly 12 nautical miles from the shoal, indicating a significant presence in the contested waters.
Radio Challenges Directed at Philippine Aircraft
During the operation, the PCG Islander aircraft encountered multiple radio challenges issued by a Chinese Navy warship. The PCG responded by emphasizing that their flight was conducted in full compliance with international legal frameworks, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the 2016 Arbitral Award, and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act. This exchange underscores the persistent diplomatic and military friction in the region, as China continues to assert its claims over disputed territories.
PCG's Stance on Sovereignty and Fisher Protection
The PCG has reiterated that their patrol activities in the area serve as a demonstration of their resolve to safeguard Philippine sovereignty and protect the livelihoods of Filipino fishermen. By exposing what they describe as the illegal presence of Chinese maritime forces, the PCG aims to reinforce the Philippines' rights under international law. Bajo de Masinloc, situated 124 nautical miles from Zambales, falls within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines, a fact that the PCG stresses in its ongoing efforts to monitor and secure the maritime domain.
Key Points from the PCG Report:
- Monitoring of two China Coast Guard vessels and two PLAN warships near Scarborough Shoal.
- Detection of five suspected Chinese maritime militia vessels within 6 to 12 nautical miles of the shoal.
- Multiple radio challenges issued to the PCG Islander aircraft by a Chinese Navy ship.
- PCG's assertion of compliance with UNCLOS, the 2016 Arbitral Award, and Philippine law.
- Emphasis on protecting Filipino fishermen and exposing unauthorized Chinese presence.
This incident adds to a series of similar encounters in the West Philippine Sea, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions between the Philippines and China over maritime boundaries and resource rights. The PCG's proactive surveillance and public disclosure of these activities are part of a larger strategy to maintain transparency and uphold national interests in the face of ongoing challenges.
