No coordination with Taiwan in driving away Chinese ship off Batanes -Tarriela
The Philippine Coast Guard successfully drove away a Chinese research vessel from its exclusive economic zone near Batanes. Officials clarified that there was no formal coordination with Taiwan, despite Taiwan's independent interest in the vessel's activities.
Why it matters
It highlights ongoing maritime territorial tensions in the South China Sea and the complex, uncoordinated security interests of regional actors.
<p>The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) did not coordinate with the Taiwan Coast Guard when it drove away a Chinese research vessel allegedly conducting unauthorized marine <a href="https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/1003995/pcg-challenges-chinese-research-vessel-loitering-off-batanes/story/" target="_blank">scientific research</a> off Itbayat, Batanes.</p><p>At a news forum in Quezon City, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela on Saturday said that up to three Taiwan Coast Guard vessels were also waiting to drive away the Chinese research ship once it exited the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.</p><p>"It is surprising that even the Taiwan Coast Guard is also seriously looking into the illegal MSR (marine scientific research) which could be conducted by this Chinese research vessel," Tarriela said.</p><p>On Thursday, the PCG said it deployed a patrol vessel and an aircraft to drive away JIA HAI KE 7, which…
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