PCG commended for vigilance vs Chinese research ship off Batanes

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The National Maritime Council (NMC) commended on Sunday the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) vigilance and continued monitoring of a Chinese research ship located within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) off Itbayat, Batanes.

In a statement, the NMC described the Coast Guard’s response as a model of professionalism, vigilance, and restraint.

“The PCG’s response reflects an important principle of Philippine maritime governance: protecting our rights does not require unnecessary confrontation. It requires vigilance, sound judgment, professional conduct, and steadfast commitment to the rule of law,” the council said.

“... Through sustained monitoring and the deployment of BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701), supported by maritime surveillance assets, the PCG demonstrated the Government’s resolve to protect Philippine maritime rights through coordinated, measured, and lawful action,” it added.

On September 28, the PCG reported spotting the Chinese research vessel JIA HAI KE 7 approximately 38 nautical miles northwest of Itbayat, well within the Philippines’ EEZ.

PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela, stated that a PCG aircraft radio-challenged the vessel multiple times, asserting the Philippines' sovereign rights while advising the ship to declare its intentions and cease any unauthorized activities.

However, the Chinese vessel did not respond to the radio challenges.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed on Friday that the Chinese research is being conducted without the consent of the Philippines, which is required under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“Under Article 246 of UNCLOS, marine scientific research in the EEZ and on the continental shelf shall be conducted with the consent of the coastal State. The Philippines did not receive any request from the Chinese side and no consent has been given to any Chinese vessel to conduct MSR,” DFA said.

The NMC said that it remains committed to reinforcing its maritime strategy, ensuring that any developments impacting national maritime interests are handled swiftly, consistently, and with proper regard for regional stability.

The Council called on China to immediately cease its unauthorized activities within Philippine waters and adhere to international law, including UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

“We call on China to stop the illegal and unauthorized activities of its vessels in the Philippines’ EEZ and abide by its obligations under UNCLOS, which include the obligation to comply with the 2016 Arbitral Award that upheld the Philippines’ sovereign rights and jurisdiction over marine scientific research in its EEZ,” the NMC said. —Lyjah Tiffany Bonzo/RF, GMA News