THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is tracking two Chinese research vessels suspected of illegally conducting marine scientific research in the Philippines’ EEZ, spokesperson Jay Tarriela said Tuesday.
The Xiang Yang Hong 302 was detected entering the Union Banks in the Spratly Islands (within the Philippine EEZ) on Monday. The Tan Sou Er Hao was first monitored entering the EEZ three days prior. The PCG has deployed aircraft to issue radio challenges to both vessels, but neither has responded.
Tarriela also revealed that a third Chinese research vessel, the Zhong Shan Da Xue, conducted marine scientific research in the northern part of the Philippine EEZ from March 31st to May 20th, departing from and returning to Guangdong province, China.
“One thing is clear, they are violating our exclusive economic zone,” Tarriela stated at a press conference. “Their marine scientific research is basically a violation of international law. We never permitted the Chinese government to conduct marine scientific research within our own exclusive economic zone.”
The PCG’s ongoing monitoring of the two remaining vessels highlights the continuing tension over maritime activities in the region.
