8-6-2024 (MANILA) The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has revealed that it monitored the presence of two Chinese warships passing through the Basilan Strait on June 6. The military’s statement comes amidst ongoing tensions in the region, raising concerns about the potential implications of such naval movements.
According to the AFP’s statement, the two vessels in question were a training ship with bow number 83 and an amphibious transport dock with bow number 999, both belonging to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. The military said, “The AFP, through the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, monitored the presence of two PLA Navy vessels—a training ship with bow number 83 and an amphibious transport dock with bow number 999—passing through the Basilan Strait within the Zamboanga Peninsula.”
In response to this development, the AFP dispatched the BRP Domingo Deluana (PG905) to shadow and monitor the passage of the two PLA Navy vessels. The escorting vessel also issued a standard challenge to the Chinese vessels, in line with established protocols.
One of the vessels, identified as Qi Jiquang (BN 83), responded that it was conducting normal navigation from its last port of call in Dili, Timor-Leste, en route to Dalian, China.
The Basilan Strait is recognized as an international sea lane, allowing for the innocent passage of vessels from various nations. However, the presence of Chinese warships in the region has raised concerns among some observers, given the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea and the broader geopolitical tensions in the region.
The AFP, in its statement, sought to reassure the public of its commitment to upholding international maritime laws while safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity. “The AFP remains vigilant in monitoring all activities within our maritime zones and is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our waters,” the statement read. “We continue to uphold international maritime laws while safeguarding our territorial integrity.”
