Philippines says China vessel conducting ‘illegal’ research near gas-rich Reed bank

This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

'We will continue to challenge any illegal activities that undermine our sovereignty and sovereign rights,' says Coast Guard commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has accused China of conducting illegal marine scientific research near the oil and gas-rich Reed (Recto) Bank within Manila’s exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, according to a Thursday, May 7, statement.

“We will continue to challenge any illegal activities that undermine our sovereignty and sovereign rights,” PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said.

• PCG aircraft spotted Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 33 near Iroquois Reef during a maritime patrol on May 6.
• The PCG said the Chinese vessel was seen deploying a service boat toward the reef, confirming the ongoing “unauthorized” research operations.
• One Chinese Coast Guard vessel and 13 Chinese maritime militia ships were also seen around the reef, it added.
• It said the Chinese research vessel departed China on April 15 and conducted operations near Second Thomas Shoal, Sabina Shoal, Mischief Reef, and Jackson Atoll in recent weeks.
• The PCG also monitored 28 Chinese maritime militia ships near Thitu island during the same maritime patrol.
• The Philippines said China had no authorisation to conduct the marine research and called it a violation of Philippine sovereign rights as well as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
• Beijing’s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

– Rappler.com