Philippines Accuses China of Illegal Marine Research in West Philippine Sea

The Philippine government has raised strong concern after reporting that several Chinese vessels were conducting unauthorized marine research within Philippine waters. According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), at least four Chinese ships were detected operating in areas considered part of the country’s exclusive economic zone, without prior approval or legal authority.

Authorities said the vessels were seen in multiple locations, including waters near Itbayat in Batanes, areas off Palawan, and near the disputed Scarborough Shoal. These locations are within zones claimed by the Philippines under international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The PCG stated that the activities of the Chinese vessels were considered illegal, stressing that any marine scientific research inside Philippine waters must have official consent from the government. Officials warned that such actions violate international rules and undermine the country’s sovereign rights over its maritime territory.

Among the vessels identified was an advanced oceanographic survey ship capable of deep-sea exploration and seabed mapping. Another ship was described as a “drone mothership,” designed to deploy multiple unmanned systems for large-scale ocean research operations. These capabilities raised further concern among Philippine authorities due to the possible extent of data collection being carried out in the area.

In response, the Philippine Coast Guard announced plans to deploy ships and aircraft to monitor and potentially drive away the foreign vessels. Officials emphasized that the country will not allow any unauthorized research activities within its waters and is prepared to take action to protect its jurisdiction.