Philippines reports Chinese vessel incursions in West Philippine Sea

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) have reported multiple incursions by Chinese vessels within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone and territorial waters.

In one incident, the PCG deployed aircraft and vessels to confront the Chinese deep-sea research ship Tan Suo Yi Hao near Hubo Reef. The PCG reported that the vessel was conducting unauthorized marine scientific research and diving operations without Philippine consent. PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan stated that China is using research and fishing vessels to pressure the Philippines and strain its maritime operational capabilities.

Separately, the NTF-WPS condemned the intrusion of Chinese Maritime Militia Vessel 9622 and 22 sampans into the territorial sea of Kota Island. The task force reported that the vessels engaged in unauthorized fishing and dumped waste at sea. During the encounter, the Chinese mothership reportedly maneuvered to encircle Philippine boats while claiming the area as Chinese territory. The Philippine Coast Guard, Navy, and Marine Corps coordinated a response that eventually led to the departure of the Chinese vessels.