A CHINA-FLAGGED vessel has been monitored operating near the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) off Batanes, with its movements raising questions over its purpose and activities in the area, according to maritime monitoring group SeaLight.
SeaLight identified the vessel as the 46-meter Mu Shan Zi (MMSI 412425790), a China-flagged ship that reportedly departed from a berth in Dongshan, Fujian, China, before sailing toward waters northwest of Itbayat, Batanes.
Based on vessel tracking data shared by SeaLight, the ship has remained about 30 nautical miles northwest of Itbayat since June 12, moving at low speeds of around 1 to 3 knots while repeatedly circling, turning, and doubling back.
The vessel does not appear to have an International Maritime Organization (IMO) number and broadcasts its vessel type as “Other,” leaving its ownership, classification, and exact purpose unclear.
SeaLight said it could not confirm whether the vessel is engaged in commercial operations, seabed surveying, or possible state-linked reconnaissance activity.
The monitoring group noted that surveying the seabed or conducting marine scientific research within another country’s EEZ requires the consent of the coastal state under international maritime law.
The Philippines’ EEZ extends up to 200 nautical miles from its baselines, giving the country sovereign rights over the exploration and use of marine resources within the area.
