China’s ‘monster ship’ returns to previous location off Zambales – PCG

Photo credit: Philippine Coast Guard

MANILA, Philippines — China’s monster ship on Saturday returned to its previous location off the coast of Zambales province in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) days after it left the area, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Commodore Jay Tarriela, the PCG spokesperson for the WPS, said the 165-meter China Coast Guard (CCG) 5901 has replaced CCG-3304 and was positioned about 180 kilometers off the coast of Zambales.

Tarriela said the BRP Teresa Magbanua, one of the PCG’s biggest and most modern vessels, was able to “gradually pushed away” 3304 from the coastline of Zambales, “achieving a remarkable distance of up to 97 nautical miles (about 180 kilometers) offshore.

READ: As ‘Monster’ leaves, new Chinese ship takes its place off Zambales

“This strategic maneuvering by the BRP Teresa Magbanua has prompted the People’s Republic of China to deploy the China Coast Guard 5901 “monster ship” this afternoon, as they attempt to outmaneuver the PCG vessel,” Tarriela said.

But he said “no amount of intimidation” from the China Coast Guard could deter the resolve and dedication of the PCG crew.

“Despite the imposing size of CCG-5901, the PCG vessel has boldly approached its starboard side at a close range, effectively hindering the China Coast Guard vessel’s attempts to move toward the Zambales coastline,” he added.

The CCG 5901, he said, has replaced CCG-3304 in its position.

The PCG, according to him, has consistently communicated over the radio, reminding the Chinese crew that they were “unlawfully operating within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and do not possess any legal authority to conduct maritime patrols.”

Tarriela said PCG Commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan believed that the PCG crew “have fully grasped the President’s directives to maintain vigilance in accordance with the law while avoiding any escalation of tensions.”

“The PCG remains committed to safeguarding the country’s maritime jurisdiction and ensuring the rule of law within Philippine waters,” Tarriela said.