MANILA: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has successfully kept a Chinese vessel illegally operating off Zambales from nearing the province’s coastline, as it spotted the “monster ship” a few nautical miles away.
In a statement released late Sunday night, the PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Jay Tarriela, said that despite BRP Cabra’s smaller size, it has prevented the China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 3103 from advancing closer to Zambales.
“The PCG vessel has maintained the China Coast Guard vessel to keep a distance of 90-100 nautical miles away from the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone,” Tarriela said.
“It is noteworthy that, although BRP Cabra is only 44 meters in length, the Chinese Coast Guard has deployed CCG-3304 at a distance, appearing to serve as a supporting vessel for CCG-3103. Additionally, CCG-5901 (the monster ship) was also spotted a few nautical miles away from CCG-3103 later today,” he added.
According to Tarriela, the PCG has committed to prevent China from “altering the status quo by encroaching closer to the coastline of Zambales.”
“Our continued presence serves as a clear demonstration of our commitment to upholding our sovereign rights and a steadfast stance against any violations of international law, all while prioritising a peaceful approach,” he said. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
