MANILA – A new China Coast Guard (CCG) ship is on its way to Philippine waters as CCG vessel 5901— dubbed the monster ship for its size — departed the coastline of Zambales Wednesday.
In a statement, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS), Commodore Jay Tarriela, said CCG-5901 was last located 90 nautical miles off the coastline of Zambales.
However, he said, CCG-3103, which left Guangdong Province on Tuesday, is heading directly to the previous location of CCG-5901.
At 3 p.m., Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection located CCG-3103 about 60 nautical miles from Pandaquit, Zambales.
“This indicates that CCG-3103 is likely serving as a replacement vessel for the monster ship, thereby sustaining its illegal presence within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ),” Tarriela said.
In response, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan deployed a PCG Islander aircraft to the area, confirming the new ship’s presence.
“Additionally, the PCG vessel BRP Cabra is heading towards the location of CCG-3103 to monitor and challenge its presence,” he said.
CCG-5901’s five-day illegal incursion inside the Philippines’ EEZ began on Saturday when it was spotted along the coastline of Capones Island in Zambales.
Gavan issued guidance to PCG personnel to remain unthreatened and to refrain from actions that could escalate tension. (PNA)