Unauthorized Chinese vessel detected in vicinity of Catanduanes

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Sunday an unauthorized Chinese research vessel has been detected in the vicinity northeast of Viga, Catanduanes.

In a statement, the AFP said it first sighted the China-flagged vessel “SHEN KUO” on April 25 (Thursday), approximately 60.9 nautical miles east off Rapu-Rapu Island, Albay.

The vessel was “lying-to in the area and had no personnel on the main deck,” according to the latest reports from Tactical Operations Wing Southern Luzon, who conducted maritime patrol on April 27, as reported by ABS CBN News.

“Several attempts to contact the vessel through regular radio channels were unsuccessful, indicating a lack of responsiveness or willingness to engage,” AFP said in its statement.

Meanwhile, AFP has tasked nearby vessels for “enhanced surveillance and reporting” as well as “coordinating with relevant agencies to address the unauthorized presence and investigate any illegal activities.”