The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is monitoring a Chinese research vessel, Song Hang, transiting through Philippine archipelagic waters en route to the Celebes Sea.

The Chinese vessel was monitored around 37 nautical miles south of Cuyo Island yesterday afternoon.

While the vessel is entitled to the right of innocent passage in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the PCG is closely monitoring the vessel’s movement to ensure compliance with all relevant domestic and international maritime regulations and to safeguard the country’s maritime interests.

The PCG has directed the deployment of aerial assets to conduct surveillance and provide situational awareness.

The PCG remains committed to upholding the country’s sovereignty, securing its maritime domain, and ensuring the safety of all vessels navigating through Philippine waters.