The Philippines’ National Security Council on Monday condemned what it called China’s recurring unlawful activities in Philippine waters, GMA News reported. The council cited unauthorized fishing near Lawak Island, reported waste dumping in Kota Island’s territorial sea, suspected marine scientific research off Batanes without consent, and dangerous maneuvers.
Separately, the Philippine Coast Guard said it drove an unauthorized foreign fishing vessel from Kota Island’s territorial sea on Sunday, its fourth such operation there in three weeks, Inquirer reported. The vessel left without reported incident.
Spokesperson Jay Tarriela said no Chinese research vessels were currently being monitored in the northern part of the exclusive economic zone, per GMA. Nikkei Asia reported Taiwan and the Philippines are exploring closer maritime cooperation as Chinese vessel pressure grows.
GMA said it had asked the Chinese Embassy in Manila for comment; no response was reported.