AFP says Chinese aircraft carrier passage off Mindanao is no cause for alarm

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 26, 2026

Photo Courtesy: AFP

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has sought to ease public concern following the passage of a Chinese aircraft carrier group off Mindanao, saying the movement was monitored by Philippine military units and did not warrant alarm.

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy’s Liaoning Carrier Group transited waters near the Zamboanga Peninsula on October 22 as it moved toward the Celebes Sea, according to the AFP’s Western Mindanao Command.

Military monitoring initially spotted the formation northwest of Talulu Point in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte, before tracking it farther south near Maitum, Sarangani.

Philippine forces kept watch on the group throughout its passage. The Philippine Navy deployed the BRP Diego Silang and BRP Emilio Jacinto, while the Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Sarangani also joined the monitoring operation.

The Philippine Air Force provided aerial reconnaissance and maritime surveillance using an S-70i Black Hawk helicopter and an NC-212i light transport aircraft.

Western Mindanao Command said the carrier group maintained a continuous and relatively swift transit through the area. Based on its monitored course and speed, military officials initially estimated that the formation would leave the command’s area of operations late on October 22.

The movement drew attention because of the presence of a Chinese aircraft carrier and its accompanying warships near Philippine waters. However, the military’s monitoring efforts allowed authorities to track the formation as it passed through the region.

The incident comes amid continuing tensions between Manila and Beijing over maritime security and competing claims in the South China Sea. Philippine authorities have repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining surveillance of foreign military and maritime activity within the country’s areas of interest.

The AFP’s position underscores its emphasis on monitoring and maritime awareness while avoiding unnecessary public alarm over the carrier group’s passage.

Philippine military and maritime agencies continue to coordinate surveillance operations to track vessel movements and safeguard the country’s maritime interests.