MANILA — The China Coast Guard’s imposing vessel, dubbed “The Monster,” has been observed hovering approximately 700 meters from the Philippines Coast Guard’s BRP Teresa Magbanua at Escoda Shoal, an official confirmed on Saturday.
Using Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection technology, the PCG tracked China’s 165-meter ship, CCG-5901, which arrived at Escoda on July 3 after lingering near Ayungin Shoal for two days, where the Philippines’ grounded warship BRP Sierra Madre serves as a naval outpost.
PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela stated that BRP Teresa Magbanua has been issuing hourly radio challenges to the “monster ship.”
However, despite these challenges, the Chinese vessel has not responded directly, asserting its jurisdiction over the waters and its conduct of maritime law enforcement operations.
“The China Coast Guard monster ship is currently positioned starboard of 9701, and we are still uncertain of their intentions. We have been communicating to them that the area where they are anchored falls within our exclusive economic zone and that they do not hold jurisdiction there,” Tarriela told reporters during a briefing.
China deployed its massive ship on July 1, coinciding with the 9th meeting of the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea between the Philippines and China in Manila.
Ray Powell, director of maritime transparency initiative Sealight and former US Air Force officer, suggested that China’s deployment of such a large vessel is a strategic move to assert dominance and influence negotiations.
“From a Chinese perspective, deploying a large ship like the monster ship enhances their leverage, signaling that negotiations should favor their terms,” Powell explained to ABS-CBN News.
He added that China’s actions indicate they expect concessions from the Philippines for stability, placing responsibility for de-escalation on the other party.
Tarriela expressed his belief that China’s deployment of the monster ship aimed to intimidate the Philippines but emphasized the PCG’s resolve to maintain its presence at Escoda Shoal.
“We view this as intimidation by the Chinese coast guard. However, regardless of how many vessels they deploy, whether coast guard or navy, the Philippine Coast Guard will not be intimidated. With the clear guidance from our president and the intention of our commandant, we will continue to assert our presence at Escoda Shoal,” Tarriela affirmed.
Regarding speculations about BRP Teresa Magbanua’s permanent stationing at Escoda, Tarriela dismissed the idea, noting its role as the PCG’s flagship and most valuable asset.
Dr. Chester Cabalza, president of the think tank International Development and Security Cooperation, viewed Magbanua’s presence as strategically important for asserting territorial claims near Panganiban Reef (Mischief), Ayungin Shoal, and Palawan Island.
“This is akin to placing a marker in your territory. I think this is a visible landmark asserting ownership,” Cabalza commented.
Powell echoed Cabalza’s sentiment, indicating the Philippines’ intent to sustain its presence at Escoda Shoal, particularly evident with recent resupply missions.
“I believe the Philippines intends to maintain Teresa Magbanua there for the long term, ensuring Philippine presence at Escoda Shoal and monitoring China’s activities to prevent further artificial constructions,” Powell concluded.