PCG deploys vessel and aircraft to challenge Chinese research ship near Hubo Reef

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 11, 2026

Photo Courtesy: PCG

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has deployed a ship and aircraft to challenge a Chinese deep-sea research vessel operating near Hubo Reef in the West Philippine Sea, amid continuing tensions over maritime activities in the area.

The operation aims to monitor the Chinese vessel and assert the Philippines’ maritime rights, according to reports on the PCG deployment.

Hubo Reef is part of the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea, where the Philippines continues to monitor foreign vessel movements and conduct maritime domain awareness operations.

The deployment underscores the PCG’s efforts to track and challenge foreign vessels whose activities it considers unauthorized in Philippine maritime zones. Aircraft provide aerial surveillance, while coast guard ships maintain a visible presence and gather information at sea.

The latest operation comes amid a series of encounters involving Philippine and Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea, including reported incidents near Philippine-held features and other disputed waters.

The PCG has maintained that it will continue patrolling the country’s maritime areas, documenting foreign vessel activities and asserting Philippine rights under international law.

Further details on the Chinese research vessel’s identity, its specific activities near Hubo Reef and the outcome of the latest challenge were not available in the accessible report.