A Chinese research vessel has been detected near Palawan and Northern Luzon, as reported on “Saksi” by Chino Gaston.
Between September 30 and October 6, approximately 190 Chinese vessels were identified in the West Philippine Sea, including 28 vessels belonging to the China Coast Guard and the People’s Liberation Army.
The Philippine Coast Guard stated that it is maintaining surveillance on these foreign ships, although no unusual activities have been noted. “We haven’t received any report of immediate concern in the area. Our monitoring continues,” said Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla, spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Security analyst Ray Powell emphasized the need for vigilance regarding research ships, suggesting they may be assessing the sea environment for potential submarine activities, or they might be symbolically asserting China’s presence.