Mon May 05 11:51:48 UTC 2025: ## Philippine Coast Guard Confronts Chinese Research Vessel in EEZ
**Manila, Philippines –** The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) intercepted a Chinese research vessel, the Tan Suo 3, operating within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on May 1st, 2025. The PCG launched a maritime operation, citing the vessel’s activities as violating Philippine sovereignty and being inconsistent with freedom of navigation.
The PCG statement detailed the discovery of a Chinese manned deep-sea submersible, the Shenhai Yongshi, capable of diving to 4,500 meters, along with unidentified yellow equipment, both believed to be related to the research activities. The PCG claims these actions constitute illegal marine scientific research within Philippine waters.
The incident occurred approximately 92 nautical miles off the Ilocos Coast. The PCG reports preventing the Chinese vessel from continuing its operations. The Chinese Embassy in Manila has yet to respond to requests for comment. The situation raises further tensions between the Philippines and China regarding maritime claims in the region.
First Piper 