Chinese research vessel spotted near Batanes, says Philippine Coast Guard

THE PHILIPPINE Coast Guard (PCG) has reported the presence of a Chinese research vessel operating within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), sighted during a routine aerial patrol on Saturday near the Babuyan Islands in northern Luzon.

- By Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio and Chloe Mari A. Hufana Reporters

The Chinese ship Xiang Yang Hong 05 was detected about 14.9 nautical miles (27 kilometers) off the coast of the islands in Batanes province, it said in a statement. The vessel did not respond to radio calls from Philippine authorities and was last tracked 86 nautical miles (159 kilometers) off Calayan Island in Cagayan province on Sunday.

The PCG said this was not the first time the vessel had entered Philippine waters. It was observed within the country’s EEZ on June 7 and again on July 31.

“Based on its historical track, the Xiang Yang Hong 05 conducted substantial marine scientific research for almost 22 days after departing the Philippine EEZ and before reentering,” the PCG said.

The recurring presence of Chinese research vessels in Philippine waters has raised concerns among maritime authorities, particularly over the potential military use of scientific data gathered during unauthorized surveys.

The Xiang Yang Hong 05 is part of a newer class of Chinese research vessels, reportedly converted from a cargo ship. Its design and activities have drawn scrutiny from regional maritime observers, especially due to operations in areas considered sensitive.