Philippine Coast Guard Says Chinese Research Vessel Operated Near Reed Bank

The Philippine Coast Guard accused China of conducting illegal marine scientific research near Reed Bank, also known as Recto Bank, within Manila’s exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea. PCG aircraft spotted the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 33 near Iroquois Reef, located near Reed Bank, during a maritime patrol on May 6, 2026.

The vessel was seen deploying a service boat toward the reef, confirming ongoing unauthorized research operations, the PCG said in a statement issued on May 7, 2026.

One Chinese Coast Guard vessel and 13 Chinese maritime militia ships were also present around Iroquois Reef that day. During the same patrol, the PCG monitored 28 Chinese maritime militia ships near Thitu island. The Philippines stated that China had no authorisation to conduct the marine research near Reed Bank.

It called the activity a violation of Philippine sovereign rights and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 33 departed China on April 15, 2026. In recent weeks prior to May 7, 2026, it conducted operations near Second Thomas Shoal, Sabina Shoal, Mischief Reef, and Jackson Atoll.

Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard, said the service would not tolerate such actions. "We will continue to challenge any illegal activities that undermine our sovereignty and sovereign rights," he stated. Rappler reported that Beijing’s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the Philippine accusations.