The Philippine Navy (PN) took decisive action after it spotted a Chinese warship inside the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). On December 24, the Navy confirmed that it had dispatched two of its warships to monitor and escort the Chinese frigate, which was first sighted near Capones Island, Zambales, on December 17.
Philippine Navy Acts After Chinese Warship Enters Philippine Waters
The initial report came from members of the local maritime community, who noticed the Chinese vessel operating in Philippine waters without providing any clear explanation. The ship has been identified as the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) Jiangkai II (Type 054A) frigate, known as Yulin, with the bow number 569.
Responding quickly, the Philippine Navy’s Northern Luzon Naval Command (NLNC) acted without delay. The offshore patrol vessel BRP Emilio Jacinto (PS-35), operating under Naval Task Force 11, was the first to be deployed. Its mission was to carry out maritime patrol operations and confirm the reported presence of the foreign warship. During the patrol, the Emilio Jacinto successfully verified that the Yulin frigate was indeed within the Philippines’ EEZ, marking a sensitive presence of a foreign naval ship in the area.
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To strengthen the monitoring and assert Philippine maritime rights, the guided missile frigate BRP Diego Silang was also deployed. With both warships operating together, the Navy ensured continuous surveillance while maintaining a professional and controlled approach toward the Chinese vessel.
Upholding Sovereignty Through Professional Measures
Throughout the encounter, the Philippine Navy emphasized that its personnel carried out the operation professionally and without escalation. The crews of the Emilio Jacinto and the Diego Silang maintained a measured posture to assert the Philippines’ rights over its waters firmly while avoiding any confrontation.
The Navy repeatedly issued radio challenges to the Chinese frigate, referencing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). It reminded the foreign ship that it had entered Philippine waters and had been loitering without providing information on its intentions or purpose.
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The Philippine Navy is currently escorting the Chinese frigate in a controlled manner, allowing its personnel to maintain situational awareness while prioritizing safety at sea. These steps highlight the Navy’s ability to respond effectively to foreign naval activity while upholding international maritime law and protecting the nation’s sovereignty.
The professional handling of the situation shows the Navy’s commitment to ensuring that foreign vessels respect the rules governing Philippine waters. It also demonstrates that even when foreign warships enter the EEZ, the country has measures in place to manage such encounters responsibly and safely.
Routine Security Operations Protect Philippine Waters
The Philippine Navy clarified that the deployment of its warships is part of routine maritime security operations. The NLNC’s responsibilities include safeguarding the country’s maritime interests, enhancing maritime domain awareness, and upholding Philippine sovereignty.
During the operation, the Navy continuously monitored and coordinated activities to protect maritime traffic. It also focused on safeguarding coastal communities near the area of operations. The Navy emphasized that these procedures are standard. They form part of its ongoing mission to defend national security and maintain territorial integrity.
By deploying both the BRP Emilio Jacinto and BRP Diego Silang, the Navy showed it can respond quickly and effectively to the presence of foreign naval vessels. These operations are essential for maintaining vigilance in areas considered sensitive and strategically important to the Philippines.
This incident highlights the Navy’s readiness to assert the country’s rights over its maritime zones. At the same time, it ensures the safety of nearby vessels and coastal communities. It also reflects the Navy’s commitment to monitor foreign naval activity, protect maritime borders, and uphold the nation’s sovereignty in its territorial waters.
The operation underscores the importance of continuous surveillance and preparedness. It shows that the Philippines maintains control over its EEZ and can manage encounters with foreign naval forces professionally and effectively.