4-3-2024 (MANILA) In a move to bolster maritime presence and monitor Chinese research activities, the Philippines dispatched a coastguard vessel on Monday to conduct a two-week patrol mission in the waters north and east of the country. The mission aims to ensure heightened maritime awareness and scrutinize the activities of Chinese research vessels reportedly spotted in Benham Rise.
Benham Rise, situated off the east coast of the Philippines, was officially designated by the United Nations as part of the country’s continental shelf in 2012. In 2017, Manila renamed it “Philippine Rise” to assert its sovereignty over the vast area.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) issued a statement outlining the objectives of the patrol, including maritime domain awareness, increased presence in the northern Luzon island, and the monitoring of local fishermen. PCG spokesperson Armando Balilo emphasized the intention to verify the presence of reported Chinese research vessels in Benham Rise.
While Benham Rise is recognized for its rich biodiversity and abundant fish stocks, it is distinct from the South China Sea. Notably, China has not made any territorial claims over Benham Rise.
However, tensions persist between China and the Philippines over islands in the South China Sea. Despite a 2016 arbitration ruling that dismissed China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea as lacking legal basis under international law, the dispute continues to strain bilateral relations.
Ray Powell, director of SeaLight at the Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation, revealed on Friday that two Chinese research vessels departed from Longxue Island in Guangzhou on Feb. 26. Powell indicated that these vessels were observed “loitering” northeast of Benham Rise, well within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines.
