MANILA PHILIPPINES – The Armed Forces of the Philippines monitored unauthorized presence of a Chinese-flagged research vessel, “SHEN KUO,” in the vicinity northeast of Viga, Catanduanes.
In a statement released Sunday, the AFP said the vessel Shen Kuo was first sighted last Thursday, April 25, at 60.9 nautical miles east off Rapu-Rapu Island in Albay.
According to the Latest Report from Tactical Operations Wing, Southern Luzon (TOWSOL) who conducted maritime patrol (MARPAT) on April 27, it was observed that the vessel was lying-to in the area and had no personnel on the main deck.
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Several attempts to contact the vessel through regular radio channels were unsuccessful, indicating a lack of responsiveness or willingness to engage.
The AFP remains vigilant, monitoring any unauthorized research vessel in our maritime domain.
Additionally, the AFP is coordinating with relevant agencies to address the unauthorized presence and investigate any illegal activities within our EEZ, ensuring the security and protection of our waters.
Meanwhile AFP Chief if Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner wants all Army reservists to be trained on territorial defense amid the shift in geopolitical dynamics that includes the tension in the West Philippine Sea.
Brawner said there is a need for the training of reservists amid what the AFP statement described as “in light of the current threats faced by the nation.