The Philippine Coast Guard has accused China of conducting illegal marine scientific research near the oil and gas-rich Reed bank within Manila's exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea…
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The Philippine Coast Guard has accused China of conducting illegal marine scientific research near the oil and gas-rich Reed bank within Manila's exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, according to a statement on Thursday.
"We will continue to challenge any illegal activities that undermine our sovereignty and sovereign rights," PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said.
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PCG aircraft spotted Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 33 near Iroquois Reef during a maritime patrol on May 6.
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The PCG said the Chinese vessel was seen deploying a service boat toward the reef, confirming the ongoing "unauthorized" research operations.
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One Chinese Coast Guard vessel and 13 Chinese maritime militia ships were also seen around the reef, it added.
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It said the Chinese research vessel departed China on April 15 and conducted operations near Second Thomas Shoal, Sabina Shoal, Mischief Reef, and Jackson Atoll in recent weeks.
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The China Coast Guard said a PCG aircraft "deliberately approached and harassed" the Chinese research vessel, and called the vessel's operations "a legitimate marine ecological survey".
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The CCG accused the Philippines of distorting facts
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