6-1-2025 (MANILA) In a significant escalation of maritime tensions, the Philippines has mobilised its military and coast guard assets to monitor China’s largest coast guard vessel, which Manila officials have dubbed ‘the monster’, within the nation’s exclusive economic zone.
The massive 165-metre vessel, designated as ship 5901, was spotted between 65 and 70 nautical miles off Zambales Province on Sunday, prompting immediate action from Philippine authorities. The vessel’s presence has been condemned as a deliberate act of intimidation by Beijing.
National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya issued a stern warning during a state television broadcast on Monday. “Our entire fleet of assets is tracking this monster ship,” he declared. “Any provocative manoeuvres will be met with an appropriate response from our forces.”
The Philippine Coast Guard reported a tense radio exchange with the Chinese vessel, demanding its immediate withdrawal from the area whilst emphasising its lack of authority to operate in Philippine waters. The Chinese ship responded by asserting it was conducting legitimate law enforcement activities within what it claims as its jurisdictional waters.
“This is nothing short of intimidation, coercion, and aggression wrapped in diplomatic deception,” Malaya stated. “Beijing is flexing its maritime muscle to intimidate our fishing communities.” He announced plans to strengthen the Philippine maritime presence to protect local fishermen’s interests.
The incident marks the latest chapter in deteriorating Sino-Philippine relations under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s administration, which has taken a notably firmer stance against perceived Chinese territorial encroachment. The dispute centres on China’s expansive claims over the South China Sea, a vital maritime corridor facilitating annual trade worth approximately $3 trillion.
Despite a 2016 ruling by The Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration that invalidated China’s sweeping maritime claims, Beijing continues to maintain a substantial coast guard presence throughout the region, including waters claimed by Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia.
