China Coast Guard's "Monster Ship," January 5, 2025. Handout/Philippine Coast Guard

MANILA -- The Philippine Coast Guard has enhanced the monitoring of China's "monster ship," which has been loitering in the waters of Zambales.

Aside from the monitoring being done by the BRP Cabra on Chinese Coast Guard vessel 5901, the PCG has deployed an aircraft named the Coast Guard Islander to support the operations. 

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"This aircraft will document any potential incidents, including intentional ramming by the CCG vessel, and ensure that immediate rescue operations can be initiated if needed," Commodore Jay Tarriela said in a statement.

The PCG said the monster ship has been challenged regarding its illegal presence, emphasizing that it lacks the legal authority to operate within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone. 

"This radio challenge from the PCG is a response to claims made by the CCG vessel, which asserts it is conducting law enforcement duties within what it considers the jurisdictional waters of the People’s Republic of China," said Tarriela, the PCG's spokesperson on the West Philippine Sea.

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According to Tarriela, the PCG "will continue to take deliberate and appropriately measured actions to challenge the illegal presence of the Chinese Coast Guard until it ceases its violations of the Philippines’ sovereign rights in these waters."

"Throughout these monitoring efforts, the safety and security of Filipino fishermen remain the PCG's highest priority," Tarriela said.

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