The Philippine Navy has monitored two vessels belonging to the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy off the northern coast of Luzon on April 22.
According to Navy spokesperson Captain John Percie Alcos, one of the ships spotted was the Shandong (CV-17), a Chinese aircraft carrier, seen approximately 2.23 nautical miles southwest of Babuyan Island.
Alongside the carrier, a Type 815A electronic surveillance vessel, identified as AGI-797, was also detected around 33 nautical miles northwest of Dalupiri Island.
The Navy’s Northern Luzon Command immediately deployed naval assets to observe and monitor the foreign vessels. While the presence of ships from other nations is not unusual in the region, this specific encounter with a Chinese aircraft carrier is notable due to its proximity and potential implications for maritime security.
Captain Alcos clarified that the waters off Babuyan Island are recognized as part of a maritime corridor, where international naval and commercial vessels are expected to pass.
No hostile intent was reported, but the monitoring continues as part of the Philippines’ commitment to securing its maritime territory.
This development comes amid ongoing regional concerns over territorial sovereignty and naval activity in Philippine waters.
