The Philippines expressed “serious concern” over the incursions of China Coast Guard vessels, including CCG-5901 known as “The Monster,” in the West Philippine Sea while highlighting its commitment to diplomatic dialogue with China during the 10th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) held in Xiamen on Thursday.
“Our position is clear and consistent, but so is our willingness to engage in dialogue. We firmly believe that despite the unresolved challenges and differences, there is genuine space for diplomatic and pragmatic cooperation in dealing with our issues in the South China Sea,” Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro said.
“The Philippines expressed serious concern regarding recent incidents in the South China Sea, particularly the activities of CCG 5901 and CCG 3103 in Philippine maritime zones that are inconsistent with the 1982 UNCLOS and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act,” the DFA said in a news release.
The past weeks, concerns have grown over China’s “Monster” ship, a 165-meter (540-foot) vessel, which has been observed moving closer to the Luzon coastline.
The ship was last located 143 kilometers (89 miles) west of Capones Island in Zambales province.
On Wednesday, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela noted that while the ship does not carry out “aggressive actions,” its mere presence “is concerning.”
He said the massive vessel has remained off the coast of Zambales province despite the PCG’s efforts to drive it away.
The PCG officer said the CCG vessel’s movements have not been “continuous or expeditious,” showing that it is not in the area for “innocent passage.”
“In response, BRP Gabriela Silang has effectively maintained a protective position through skillful seamanship, successfully keeping the CCG at an average distance of 60-70 nautical miles from the Philippine coastline,” Tarriela said on X.
Meanwhile, the National Maritime Council demanded that China withdraw its massive ship from the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
“The Philippines strongly opposes the continued illegal presence and operations of the CCG vessels… The escalatory actions of these Chinese vessels and aircraft clearly disregard Philippine and international laws,” the NMC said.
“China does not have any basis to conduct law enforcement activities or maritime patrols over these waters,” the council added.
