A China Coast Guard vessel was reported shadowing a civilian mission led by the Atin Ito Coalition as it traveled toward Pag-asa Island.
According to the group, a China Coast Guard vessel bearing bow number 3103 was monitored at about 7:20 a.m. The vessel was observed at a distance of approximately 3.2 nautical miles from the Atin Ito mission vessel, MV Kapitan Felix Oca.
As of now, there has been no official statement or confirmation regarding the presence of the China Coast Guard vessel or its purpose in approaching the civilian mission.
Earlier, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, assured that the military supports the civilian-led mission and will continue to monitor its progress.
As of 7:40 a.m., the civilian mission was reported to be about 90 nautical miles from Manila and 60 nautical miles west of Mindoro.
The Atin Ito Coalition is conducting a six-day civilian-led mission featuring what it calls a Patriotic Jet Ski Flag Ride. The group said the activity reflects its intention to carry out a previous pledge made by former President Rodrigo Duterte to ride a jet ski and wave the Philippine flag in the West Philippine Sea.
Aside from the symbolic activity, the mission also aims to deliver food and fuel supplies to island residents. The group also plans to conduct a medical outreach and hold a community concert for local communities on Pag-asa Island.
Authorities said monitoring of the mission remains ongoing.
