The Chinese research vessel seen in the eastern part of Philippine seas has sought shelter in the country due to bad weather conditions, an official said.
Based on the report of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), research ship Jia Geng docked in Bato, Catanduanes on January 29. PCG personnel were immediately sent to board the ship and inquire on its purpose but were not allowed due to health protocols.
“May clearance pala sa DFA para pumasok ito… Nag-take shelter ‘yung research vessel ng China sapagkat may gale warning doon sa area at medyo malakas ‘yung alon (It had DFA clearance to enter… The research vessel took shelter due to the gale warning in the area and rough seas),” PCG spokesperson Commodore Armando Balilo explained.
The Chinese Embassy likewise stated that the scientific survey ship was “seeking humanitarian shelter in Philippine waters due to unfavorable weather and sea conditions in the Pacific where they are scheduled to conduct research mission.”
Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. confirmed that the DFA only approved the vessel’s emergency request to temporarily dock in the country due to humanitarian reasons.
The same Chinese vessel triggered a diplomatic protest against China last September for docking at the Calayan Island without government permission.
Security expert Prof. Rommel Banlaoi warned the government “should be concerned as we do not allow any foreign vessels to navigate in Philippine waters to conduct economic or survey activities without our permission, unless done in good faith or innocent passage.”
Despite this, the PCG said there is no need to worry over the recent incident. The ship has already left the territory of the Philippines.
The Bureau of Customs is now investigating another Chinese vessel witnessed in Bataan to have been conducting dredging activities. It is now under the agency’s custody and a warrant of seizure and detention have been issued against the ship’s crew. – Report from Bea Bernardo
