UPDATE: Filipino fishermen have discovered a 12-foot-long underwater drone with Chinese markings while fishing near Palawan. The incident, which occurred on September 28, 2023, is raising alarms amid ongoing tensions between the Philippines and China.
The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed the fishermen reported their find, leading to the drone’s swift recovery for investigation. The device was turned over to the Coast Guard on the same evening, highlighting the local fishermen’s commitment to national security.
According to preliminary assessments, the drone is equipped with a compact probe designed to measure seawater salinity, temperature, and depth, tools typically used for oceanographic profiling. Notably, the drone’s sensor bore Chinese labels, suggesting a direct link to Chinese maritime activities.
This is not an isolated incident. Since July 2022, the Philippine Coast Guard has recovered at least three other underwater drones believed to be linked to Chinese operations. These earlier drones contained evidence such as China Telecom SIM cards, iridium transceivers associated with Beijing-based HWA Create, and battery packs marked by China Electronics Technology Group Corporation.
The Coast Guard commended the fishermen’s quick action in reporting the drone.
“We commend the quick action of the local fishermen for reporting this find,”
stated Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan, the commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard, in a statement posted on X.
The discovery of these drones comes amid escalating maritime tensions in the South China Sea, a crucial shipping route with significant oil and gas reserves. Just last month, a confrontation between a Chinese navy warship and a China Coast Guard cutter resulted in collisions with a Philippine Coast Guard vessel, causing damage to both Chinese ships.
In January, similar underwater drones were found by fishermen off the coast of Masbate province, further complicating the Philippines’ maritime sovereignty claims against China. Filipino authorities have consistently urged China to comply with international regulations to avoid dangerous encounters at sea.
What’s Next: As the Philippine Coast Guard continues its investigation, the situation remains fluid. Officials are closely monitoring the waters around Palawan and other strategic areas to prevent future incursions. The implications of these recoveries are significant, as they highlight ongoing tensions in the region and the potential for increased military presence.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. The international community is watching closely as the Philippines navigates these delicate maritime disputes.
