The Northern Luzon Naval Command (NLNC) confirmed the presence of several People’s Liberation Army-Navy and China Coast Guard vessels near Batanes on August 7–8, calling it unauthorized under Philippine law.
According to NLNC chief Commodore Edward Ike M. De Sagon, the vessels were detected during sovereignty and maritime patrols by BRP Jose Rizal (FF150) and BRP Emilio Jacinto (PS35), both under Naval Task Force 11.
The Philippine ships issued radio challenges, prompting the Chinese vessels to alter course after continuous monitoring.
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines, particularly the Philippine Navy, remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty. These ongoing patrols in the northern maritime domain reaffirm our dedication to protecting our sovereign rights and enforcing maritime law with vigilance and resolve,” stated Commodore De Sagon, Commander of NLNC.
The command condemned the intrusion, stressing that the waters off Batanes are well within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
It vowed to continue defending Philippine territory, maintaining maritime domain awareness, and safeguarding coastal communities and resources in the nation’s northernmost frontier.
“NLNC remains resolute in its mission to defend the country’s maritime territory, maintain uninterrupted maritime domain awareness, and protect Filipino communities and maritime resources, particularly in the nation’s most critical and remote northern frontiers,” the Navy said.
