The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines has rejected China's claim of jurisdiction over waters near Batanes, following a recent incident involving a Chinese research vessel.
On October 1, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) detected the Chinese vessel Jia Hai Ke 7 approximately 69 kilometers northwest of Itbayat, within the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
The Department firmly and strongly rejects the Chinese Embassy’s assertion that China has sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the waters off Batanes.
Department of Foreign Affairs, Philippines
- Chinese vessel detected conducting unauthorized marine research.
- PCG deployed BRP Teresa Magbanua to enforce Philippine rights.
The DFA emphasized that no consent was ever given to the Chinese for conducting marine scientific research, as mandated by Article 246 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
This incident is part of a broader pattern of maritime tensions in the region, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, where similar claims have sparked confrontations.
The PCG's actions to challenge the Jia Hai Ke 7 included deploying a rigid-hull inflatable boat and issuing multiple radio warnings, ultimately leading to the Chinese vessel's departure around 11:42 a.m. on October 1.
As tensions continue, the DFA urged China to follow international law and to avoid actions that could jeopardize mutual trust. The Philippines maintains its commitment to uphold its sovereignty peacefully.