PCG aircraft dispatched to drive away Chinese research vessel

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May 19, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard deployed PCG Islander 4177 on Sunday to monitor and challenge unauthorized marine scientific research (MSR) activities of the Xiang Yang Hong 33 in the vicinity of Cay-2 and Cay-3 of Pag-asa Island.

According to the PCG, the Chinese research vessel was escorted by two Chinese Coast Guard vessels on Saturday as it landed personnel on Cay-2 before proceeding to Cay-3.

Xiang Yang Hong 33 is an advanced oceanographic survey vessel capable of supporting submersible craft and conducting comprehensive marine ecological surveys, bathymetric mapping and deep-sea data collection. 

The vessel was monitored beginning April 18, when it entered the West Philippine Sea to conduct “illegal MSR activities across multiple features in Philippine waters,” said the PCG.

“The MDA flight also documented 20 Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels (CMMVs) scattered in the surrounding waters of Sandy Cay 3 and 4,” PCG added. 

Coast Guard officials reported that they issued multiple radio challenges to the Chinese vessels for them to stop their illegal activities. 

PCG asserted that unauthorized MSR activities within the Philippines’ territorial sea violate international law, as no prior consent was given by the coastal state.

Chinese vessels were also monitored around Pag-asa Island last week, PCG spokesman for WPS issues Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela confirmed on Saturday.

According to Tarriela, about 30 CMMVs were located around Pag-asa Island and more than 20 were observed at Escoda Shoal when Sen. Francis Pangilinan visited Pag-asa Island.

“It is worth noting that the CMM presence around Pag-asa Island violates our territorial sea, while their presence at Escoda Shoal infringes on our sovereign rights,” Tarriela remarked.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said the country’s coast guard will remain consistent, lawful and resolute in defending the maritime zones of the Philippines.

“We will not allow any unauthorized foreign research or incursions into our territorial sea in Pag-asa Island in accordance with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.,” said Gavan.