Estrada: Monster ship sighting after drone recovery ‘deeply concerning’

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada

MANILA, Philippines — The sighting of the Chinese Coast Guard’s monster ship after an underwater drone was discovered over waters off Masbate province is deeply concerning, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said on Monday.

In a statement, Estrada warned the government about China’s continuous intrusive activities, noting that these should prompt the country to protect its territorial integrity and maritime rights.

“The recent sighting of the China Coast Guard’s largest vessel off the coast of Zambales is deeply concerning, especially when considering the earlier recovery of an underwater drone near Masbate province,” he said.

READ: West PH Sea: Philippines recovers suspected Chinese submarine drone

“These repeated incursions and unauthorized activities in our waters raise significant concerns about China’s respect for international law and the sovereignty of the Philippines. Such incidents emphasize the need for ongoing vigilance and a firm commitment to protecting our territorial integrity and maritime rights,” he added.

READ: PCG continues to monitor China’s monster ship detected near Luzon

Police reports said three fishermen found an underwater drone last December 30 floating at sea near San Pascual, Masbate. Police Regional Office-5 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon said the drone was not armed, but the reports listed “potential national security implications” as one significance of its recovery.

READ: Tolentino wants Senate probe into suspected Chinese drone near Masbate

The origin of the drone has not been ascertained, but it is believed to be from China.

On Sunday, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said it continues to monitor the movement of China’s “monster ship,” which was spotted “further east from Scarborough Shoal” on Saturday.

According to PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Jay Tarriela, the Coast Guard likewise conducted a radio challenge in response to the Chinese Coast Guard vessel 5901’s claims that it conducted lawful enforcement of duties within what it claimed as “the jurisdictional waters of the People’s Republic of China.”

Estrada commended PCG for its prompt response to the CCG vessel’s presence.

“I commend the Philippine Coast Guard for their prompt and effective response to the presence of the CCG vessel, referred to as ‘The Monster.’ Their vigilance and unwavering dedication to safeguarding our maritime territories reflect their commitment to the safety and security of our fisherfolk and coastal communities,” he said.

“We will not waver, no matter how big the force that challenges our territorial integrity. As a peace-loving nation, we remain committed to defending our sovereignty while pursuing diplomatic solutions to resolve these issues, ensuring adherence to international laws and agreement[s],” he added.

Earlier, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino filed a resolution urging the Senate special committee on Philippine maritime and admiralty zones to launch an investigation of the drone.

According to Tolentino, several questions have to be answered—like if the drone’s operation had been authorized by the Philippine government.