PCG challenges China ‘monster ship' seen near Zambales

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) challenged the largest ship of the China Coast Guard (CCG), which was spotted 54 nautical miles off Capones Island, Zambales on Saturday.

- MARK ERNEST VILLEZA

Using Canada's dark vessel detection system, the PCG detected the presence of the Chinese vessel, a 165-meter-long CCG ship with bow number 5901, dubbed "The Monster." In response, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan dispatched the BRP Cabra, a helicopter and a Caravan aircraft to confirm the sighting and assert the Philippines' territorial rights.

By 5 p.m., PCG assets verified the vessel's presence and personnel challenged the ship, citing Philippine jurisdiction under the Maritime Zones Law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).