AFP: Huge China Coast Guard vessel spotted near Ayungin Shoal

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said it is keeping a close watch on all activities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

This came following reports that the China Coast Guard (CCG) 5901, the force's largest vessel known as "The Monster", was recently spotted passing near the Philippine Navy ship BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57) in the Ayungin Shoal in the WPS.

"We have noted reports of a large CCG vessel passing near the BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal," the AFP said.

It added that the presence of this 12,000-ton CCG ship near the BRP Sierra Madre is part of China's broader pattern of intrusive patrols aimed at asserting unlawful claims over areas within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

In a post on X (Twitter) on Monday, former United States Air Force official Ray Powell said the CCG 5901 vessel passed close to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal and approached the Escoda Shoal.

"The AFP closely monitors all activities in the WPS as part of our commitment to maritime domain awareness and the protection of our territorial integrity, sovereignty, and sovereign rights," the AFP said.

The military also assured it remains vigilant and steadfast in its mission to uphold international maritime laws, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The AFP also emphasized that such actions by the CCG are illegal, coercive, and contrary to the spirit of maintaining peace and stability in the region.

"Our forces will continue to monitor and report any developments in the WPS in the performance of our mandate. We call on all nations to respect international law and to refrain from actions that escalate tensions in the WPS," it noted. (PNA)