Chinese 'Monster' Coast Guard Ship Enters Philippine Waters, Escalating Tensions

The world's largest coast guard vessel has been tracked within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, prompting strong pushback from Manila and raising regional security concerns.

• The Chinese coast guard ship CCG 5901, nicknamed 'the Monster,' was spotted operating within 70 nautical miles of the Philippine coastline, well inside its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
• The Philippine Coast Guard has deployed air and sea assets to monitor the vessel, describing its presence as an act of intimidation, coercion, and aggression.
• China has rejected international rulings invalidating its claims over the South China Sea and asserts the ship is conducting law enforcement within its jurisdictional waters.
• Tensions between China and the Philippines have worsened under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., as Manila strengthens its alliance with the United States to counter Beijing's maritime actions.
• The situation underscores broader regional disputes over the South China Sea, a critical trade route claimed by multiple nations but dominated by China's aggressive maritime strategy.

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The Independent South China Morning Post Newsweek CNA