The recovery of a Chinese-made submersible drone off the coast of Masbate, Philippines, has sparked a Senate inquiry into its implications for national security. Senator Francis Tolentino led the discussion, expressing concerns about the drone's origin, purpose, and potential impact on the country's maritime zone. The incident has also prompted calls for increased vigilance among Filipino fishermen, who are being urged to report any unusual sightings.
Soldiers gathered around a Chinese-made submersible drone recovered near San Pascual, Masbate on December 30, 2024. (Courtesy: PNP-Bicol) Senators examined Wednesday the implications of the submersible drone recovered off the coast of Masbate last December, with Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino assuring that the findings will pave the way for actionable steps, including potential amendments to maritime laws.
During a public inquiry by the Special Committee on Philippine Maritime and Admiralty Zones, Tolentino raised concerns about the drone’s origin, purpose, and implications for national security.He asked whether the device is considered sovereign property, if it should be returned, and if its presence constitutes an incursion by a foreign nation. “There may be many more such devices in our waters that we are unaware of. I believe this will result in circulars from BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources) guiding our fishermen on how to handle these devices with caution,” Tolentino said. The senator emphasized that analysis of the drone is crucial for the Philippine Navy and other relevant government agencies, such as the Department of Justice and Department of Foreign Affairs, for appropriate actions. The Senate inquiry also recognized the bravery of Masbate fishermen who retrieved the device. One of them, Rodney Valenzuela, recounted how he and his companions initially mistook the floating object for a fishing buoy before realizing its unusual nature. The drone, marked with “HY-119,” was brought ashore and handed over to local authorities. Despite fears that it might be a bomb, the fishermen relied on their instincts and managed to retrieve the equipment without any formal training, Tolentino said. Meanwhile, Navy Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad disclosed that five similar submersible drones have been recovered in Philippine waters. These include devices retrieved in Calayan Island, Ilocos Norte, Misamis Oriental, and the most recent in Masbate. While the Navy assured the public that the discoveries are not alarming, they encouraged continued vigilance. “We were not alarmed when it was first reported to us—the fifth one—because we already had four previously, but we are concerned. We are concerned about its presence in our EEZ (exclusive economic zone), so we are giving it proper attention,” Trinidad said in Tagalog. “We also appeal to our fisherfolk. First, we thank them for their vigilance in our oceans; second, we call on fishermen to remain watchful and report anything unusual,” the Navy official added in a recent interview. Tolentino filed a Senate resolution to determine whether the incident necessitates amending existing laws, strengthening enforcement, or integrating such occurrences into the country’s national security framework
PHILIPPINES DRONE SECURITY MARITIME LEGISLATION
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Suspected Chinese Drone Found in Philippine Waters Sparks InvestigationA submersible drone found off the coast of San Pascual, Masbate in the Philippines is suspected to be of Chinese origin. The discovery has prompted an investigation by Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino who aims to determine the drone's origin and purpose. The incident raises questions about potential violations of Philippine maritime laws.
Read more »
China's Largest Coast Guard Vessel Enters Philippine WatersThe world's largest coast guard vessel, China Coast Guard's 'The Monster,' entered Philippine waters, sailing close to Luzon and Scarborough Shoal. The incident raises concerns about China's maritime assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea.
Read more »
Philippine Coast Guard Monitors China’s ‘Monster Ship’ in Disputed WatersThe Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is closely watching a large Chinese Coast Guard vessel, known as the 'monster ship,' operating in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Read more »
China Coast Guard's 'The Monster' Remains in Philippine WatersThe China Coast Guard vessel 5901, nicknamed 'The Monster,' continues to operate illegally within Philippine waters, raising concerns from the National Security Council. The Philippine Coast Guard is actively monitoring the vessel and challenging its presence.
Read more »
Chinese Coast Guard Vessel 'The Monster' Continues Illegal Presence in Philippine WatersThe Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) continues to monitor Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 5901, also known as 'The Monster', as it remains in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ). PCG officials say the vessel's movements suggest it is not engaged in innocent passage but is asserting Chinese jurisdiction over the area. The PCG is keeping a close watch on CCG-5901 to uphold Philippine sovereign rights.
Read more »
Philippines Challenges China's 'Monster Coast Guard Ship' in Philippine WatersThe Philippines is actively challenging the presence of a large Chinese coast guard ship in its waters, according to a statement from Malacañang. The Philippine Coast Guard has been tracking and confronting the vessel, which has been seen repeatedly within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.
Read more »