Philippine Coast Guard labels Chinese vessels near Kota Island a coordinated militia operation
The Philippine Coast Guard said Chinese ships operating around Kota Island were part of a coordinated militia effort, not ordinary fishing.
Rear Adm. Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the PCG's West Philippine Sea unit, described the presence of a Chinese maritime militia vessel, CMMV 9622, and 22 small boats as a coordinated operation. The PCG and other maritime authorities expelled the vessels after they were found conducting unauthorized fishing and dumping waste. Tarriela dismissed the Chinese embassy's explanation that the activity was merely fishing.
Why it matters
It highlights escalating maritime disputes and the Philippines' stance against unauthorized Chinese activities in contested waters.
How this story developed
- Sep 27 Philippine Coast Guard dispatches aircraft and vessel to confront China Coast Guard in EEZ
- Oct 4 The Coast Guard’s response shifted from expelling the vessel to continuous monitoring.
- Oct 8 A Chinese research ship was observed operating inside the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone off Batanes.
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