UPDATE: Filipino fishermen have uncovered a 12-foot-long underwater drone believed to be of Chinese origin while fishing near Palawan last week, marking another alarming discovery amid escalating tensions between the Philippines and China.
On September 28, 2023, the fishermen promptly reported their find to the Philippine Coast Guard, who confirmed that the drone’s sensors were labeled in Chinese. This incident is part of a troubling pattern, with at least three similar drones linked to Chinese military operations recovered since 2022.
The Philippine Coast Guard Commandant, Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan, praised the fishermen for their swift action in turning over the device for further investigation. “We commend the quick action of the local fishermen for reporting this find,” he stated in a post on X.
Preliminary assessments of the drone revealed that it contained a compact probe designed to measure seawater salinity, temperature, and depth. Such technology is typically employed for oceanographic profiling, raising questions about its intended use.
In a concerning trend, previous drones recovered in the area were found to contain components linked to Chinese defense contractors. These included China Telecom SIM cards and iridium transceivers connected to Beijing-based HWA Create, along with battery packs marked by the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation.
These underwater drone discoveries come against the backdrop of intensifying maritime disputes in the South China Sea, where both China and the Philippines assert conflicting territorial claims. In a notable incident in August, a Chinese navy warship collided with a China Coast Guard cutter while pursuing a Philippine vessel, resulting in significant damage to both ships.
In an official statement, Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard, reiterated calls for China to adhere to international maritime regulations to prevent further incidents. “We have also emphasized that such reckless behavior at sea could ultimately lead to accidents,” Tarriela warned.
As tensions in the region continue to rise, the Philippine government remains vigilant. With each discovery, the situation demands urgent attention and scrutiny, underscoring the need for international cooperation in ensuring maritime safety and sovereignty.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Philippine Coast Guard investigates this latest incident and its implications for regional security.
