• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Visayas Command (VISCOM) is monitoring the unauthorized presence of a China-flagged Research/Survey Vessel named SHEN KUO, that was observed on April 30 in the vicinity of Sulat, Eastern Samar.
It was first sighted in Rapu Rapu Island in Albay on April 25, then in the vicinity of Viga, Catanduanes on April 28.
In a statement, VISCOM chief Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg expressed his firm resolve in safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the country’s territory.
“VISCOM will remain committed to upholding the Philippine sovereignty and ensure the integrity of the country’s territory, particularly here in the Visayas region,” Reyeg said, adding that they will continuously monitor the Chinese vessel and to address this incident through diplomatic channels in accordance with international maritime laws and protocols.
He added that they are closely coordinating with the Philippine Coast Guard to conduct surveillance and address this unauthorized presence as well as investigate possible illegal activities that this vessel might have been conducting in the area.
SHEN KUO embarked from Shekou Wharf, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China on April 19. It lacks the necessary diplomatic clearance to enter and exit the country’s maritime territory, the VISCOM statement said.*
