China Anchors Largest Coast Guard Vessel at Sabina Shoal in Philippine Waters

Jul 7, 2024, 10:28 PM

China's largest coast guard vessel, the 165-meter CCG-5901, has anchored in the South China Sea within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Philippine Coast Guard reported that the vessel entered Manila's 200-nautical mile EEZ on July 2 and anchored 800 yards from a Philippine vessel, Teresa Magbanua, at the disputed Sabina Shoal. The presence of the Chinese vessel is seen as an attempt to intimidate the Philippines. China claims sovereignty over these waters and asserts that the vessel is conducting maritime law enforcement. Additionally, the Armed Forces of the Philippines reported the sighting of several Chinese ships near Ayungin Shoal and the CCG-5901 has been anchored at Escoda Shoal since July 3.