Cabra Island, Philippines – Chinese military vessels have entered the Philippine exclusive economic zone and begun exercises, sparking a direct confrontation with the Philippine Coast Guard.

At approximately 69.31 nautical miles off the coast of Cabra Island, PLA Navy warship 793 was sighted with China Coast Guard vessel 4203. Philippine vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua attempted radio contact. The warship ignored the call, while the coast guard escort responded, claiming Chinese sovereignty over the area.

Shortly after, another ship, PLA Navy warship 164, joined the formation. It carried out continuous helicopter landing drills on its deck throughout the morning. All attempts to establish radio contact were ignored by the PLA Navy.

The PCG reiterated that the location is firmly within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. The Chinese presence was described as unauthorized, and the PCG demanded they stop all activities immediately.

Despite repeated warnings, the Chinese vessels remain active. The Philippine Coast Guard continues to shadow them and asserts its authority under international law, citing UNCLOS, the 2016 Arbitral Award, and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act.

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