Philippines - January 05, 2025 The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) detected the illegal presence of Chinese Coast Guard vessel 5901, 54 nautical miles off Capones Island, Zambales, on January 4, 2025, using Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection system. In response, the PCG deployed the BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409), a helicopter, and an aircraft to verify and challenge the vessel’s presence, asserting Philippine sovereign rights. By 5:00 PM, the Chinese vessel’s location was confirmed within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The PCG continued to challenge the vessel’s presence, citing the Philippine Maritime Zones Law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). As of 8:00 PM, the Chinese vessel had moved westward, positioning 85 nautical miles from Zambales, while the PCG maintained vigilance to protect Filipino fishermen operating in the area. The PCG reaffirmed its commitment to upholding maritime sovereignty and ensuring safe operations within Philippine waters.