China’s largest coast guard ship was spotted near Ayungin Shoal a day after the Philippines. China agreed to de-escalate tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) through a Bilateral Consultation Mechanism meeting in Manila.
The 165-meter-long vessel, known as “The Monster,” joined a smaller China Coast Guard boat, continuing to assert its presence in disputed waters despite previous agreements to ease tensions.
Philippine Navy spokesman Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad confirmed that radio challenges are issued to all vessels transiting through Philippine waters, emphasizing routine monitoring.
Amidst rising tensions, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino pushed for the urgent passing of the Maritime Zones law to assert the Philippines’ territorial claims.
Additionally, the government has allocated P600 million to distribute fishing boats to boost fisheries production, particularly in contested areas of the WPS.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 4, 2024
