MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) asserted that the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) was conducting a lawful enforcement operation along the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), rejecting China’s assertions of sovereign rights over waters off Batanes.
This comes after the Chinese research vessel Jia Hai Ke 7 on Thursday was detected operating approximately 37 nautical miles northwest of Itbayat, Batanes.
The Chinese embassy has since defended the operation of the research vessel, accusing the PCG of "harassment" and claimed the research vessel was conducting normal scientific operations in waters under China’s jurisdiction.
In response, the DFA on Friday said the operations occurred well within Philippine territory under international law.
"The Department firmly and strongly rejects the Chinese Embassy's assertion that China has sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the waters off Batanes," the DFA said in a statement.
