Chinese Research Vessels in the Philippines’ EEZ: Analyzing the Maritime Tensions in the South China Sea

In a recent development that has further strained relations between the Philippines and China, another Chinese research vessel, Haiyang Dizhi Si Hao, was detected operating within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The vessel has been conducting survey operations since August 14, specifically north of Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal. This incident marks the second time in less than a month that a Chinese research vessel has ventured into the Philippine EEZ, raising significant concerns about China’s maritime intentions and its broader geopolitical strategy in the South China Sea.

The detection of Haiyang Dizhi Si Hao comes on the heels of another Chinese vessel, Ke Xue San Hao, which was sighted surveying areas south and east of Escoda (Sabina) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on July 25. The Ke Xue San Hao traveled through regions around submerged features, including First Thomas Shoal, Half Moon Shoal, Bombay Shoal, Royal Captain Shoal, Northeast Investigator Shoal, and Boxall Reef. The repeated incursions by Chinese research vessels into the Philippine EEZ suggest a deliberate strategy by China to maintain pressure on the West Philippine Sea, even as it loosens its blockade of the Ayungin outpost, where the derelict navy ship Sierra Madre serves as a station for a small detachment of Philippine soldiers.

Prior to its sighting off Bajo de Masinloc, Haiyang Dizhi Si Hao was monitored inside Malaysia’s EEZ. According to a Malaysian military official, the vessel spent two weeks within Malaysian-controlled waters before moving into the Philippine EEZ. This pattern of movement underscores the broader regional implications of China’s maritime activities, as it appears to be systematically surveying and asserting its presence in contested waters across Southeast Asia. The incursions have not gone unnoticed, prompting Manila to issue warnings to countries whose vessels conduct marine scientific research (MSR) activities in Philippine waters without proper clearance, stating that such actions will be subject to diplomatic protest.

The last MSR application granted to China by the Philippines was in December 2017, allowing for research activities in northeastern Luzon and Mindanao. Since then, the Philippines has been more vigilant in monitoring and regulating foreign research activities within its maritime domain. The recent activities of Chinese research vessels have heightened tensions, particularly as Beijing continues to assert its claims over vast areas of the South China Sea, including territories within the Philippine EEZ. These actions are seen as part of China’s broader strategy to consolidate its control over the region, despite international legal rulings that have invalidated its expansive claims.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, China has accused the Philippines of planning to send a second coast guard vessel to anchor at Escoda Shoal, which the Chinese refer to as Xianbin Jiao or Xianbin Reef, to construct a forward deployment base. According to the Global Times, Beijing’s English-language newspaper, the Philippines intends to deploy the BRP Melchora Aquino alongside BRP Teresa Magbanua in a joint anchoring operation. The Teresa Magbanua has been stationed in the area since April, and the alleged expansion plans have been framed by China as an escalation of the Philippines’ occupation of the disputed shoal.

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, Comm. Jay Tarriela, has countered these claims, stating that China is making such statements to shape perceptions and distract from its aggressive behavior in the region. The recent deployment of the world’s largest coast guard ship, China’s so-called ‘Monster,’ to Escoda Shoal on August 11, followed by its replacement with another Chinese vessel, exemplifies China’s ongoing efforts to assert its maritime presence. The Chinese vessel now stationed opposite BRP Teresa Magbanua further illustrates the tense standoff between the two nations in these contested waters.

In response to these developments, the Philippines’ National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea has commended the Senate for passing a bill defining archipelagic sea lanes to protect the marine environment and resources. This legislation, which aligns with efforts by the House of Representatives, aims to further define the Philippine maritime domain and enhance the country’s ability to regulate and protect its waters. The bill is seen as a crucial step in strengthening the Philippines’ legal framework and asserting its rights over its EEZ amid increasing foreign incursions.

The repeated presence of Chinese research vessels in the Philippine EEZ raises several critical questions about the future of maritime security and sovereignty in the South China Sea. China’s actions appear to be part of a broader strategy to assert its dominance in the region, leveraging its maritime capabilities to conduct surveys and gather data that could support its territorial claims. This strategy not only challenges the sovereignty of the Philippines but also poses a threat to the stability and security of the entire Southeast Asian region.

The Philippines, on its part, has been proactive in addressing these challenges through diplomatic channels and by enhancing its maritime capabilities. The deployment of coast guard vessels and the passage of legislation to define archipelagic sea lanes are indicative of Manila’s commitment to protecting its maritime interests. However, the Philippines faces significant challenges in countering China’s superior maritime capabilities and its strategic use of research vessels to assert its presence in contested waters.

Internationally, the situation in the South China Sea has drawn attention from various stakeholders, including the United States and other Western allies, who have expressed support for the Philippines and called for the respect of international maritime laws. The South China Sea is a vital waterway for global trade, and any disruption in this region could have far-reaching economic and geopolitical consequences. As such, the international community has a vested interest in ensuring that the rule of law is upheld and that the sovereignty of nations like the Philippines is respected.

Looking ahead, the Philippines must continue to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape of the South China Sea with a balanced approach that combines diplomatic engagement, legal measures, and the strengthening of its maritime capabilities. Building alliances with other ASEAN countries and engaging in multilateral forums can also help bolster the Philippines’ position and create a unified front against unilateral actions that threaten regional stability. The ongoing tensions underscore the need for a comprehensive and coordinated strategy to address the challenges posed by China’s maritime activities.

In conclusion, the repeated incursions of Chinese research vessels into the Philippines’ EEZ highlight the ongoing maritime tensions in the South China Sea. These actions reflect China’s broader strategy to assert its dominance in the region, posing significant challenges to the sovereignty and security of the Philippines. As Manila continues to respond through diplomatic protests, legislative measures, and enhanced maritime patrols, the situation remains a critical focal point for regional and international stakeholders. The future of the South China Sea will depend on the ability of nations to uphold international law, protect their maritime rights, and foster cooperation to ensure peace and stability in this strategically important region.