News
PCG keeps CCG ‘monster ship’ farther from Zambales coastline
CCG 5901 was first spotted 54 nautical miles from Zambales shores on Jan.
4 and has since been pushed back by BRP Teresa Magbanua. (File Photo: @jaytaryela/X)
By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz, Philippine News Agency
MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has kept China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 5901, dubbed the “monster ship” for its size, farther from the Zambales coastline.
In a statement, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said the ship is now 117 nautical miles from the shores of Zambales as of Sunday evening, the 30th day of the Chinese incursion inside the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
CCG 5901 was first spotted 54 nautical miles from Zambales shores on Jan. 4 and has since been pushed back by BRP Teresa Magbanua.
“The PCG is committed to preventing the normalization of the People’s Republic of China’s illegal deployment of maritime forces in the region,” Tarriela said.
He said CCG’s presence in Philippine waters is unlawful and shows China’s “refusal to recognize the arbitral award [and] illustrate [its] blatant disregard for international law and the established rules-based order.”
“While CCG-5901 has expressed intentions to promote peace and stability through mutual trust and cooperation over the radio, the actions of the CCG starkly contradict these assertions, revealing a hidden agenda that jeopardizes efforts toward a peaceful resolution,” he said.
To date, he said BRP Teresa Magbanua remains on patrol near CCG 5901 to challenge its presence.
“The PCG remains resolute in its commitment to safeguard the welfare of Filipino fishermen, uphold our maritime rights, enforce international law, and foster de-escalation of tensions in our waters,” he said.
