On September 28, 2026, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) identified and subsequently stopped the Chinese research tanker named Jia Hai Ke 7, which was conducting unauthorized research in the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ). This action is recognized as a violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Details of Identification and Action by the Philippine Navy
The Jia Hai Ke 7 tanker was observed patrolling northwest of Itbayat in the Luzon Strait. This area is of high strategic importance due to its access to the Pacific Ocean and the connection of telecom cables between the Philippines and Taiwan. AIS data provided by Pole Star Global indicates that this tanker traveled from mainland China to this area.
On September 29, two Philippine Navy ships named BRP Teresa Magbanua and PCG Islander 251 were dispatched to intervene and expel the Chinese tanker from the area. The Philippine Navy successfully stopped the Jia Hai Ke 7 and forced it to leave its position by using pressure tactics, including approaching within 50 yards.
Consequences of This Action
Despite the pressure from the Philippine Navy, the Jia Hai Ke 7 has not yet completely left the area, and the Philippine Navy continues to monitor its activities. Additionally, a Chinese Coast Guard ship has been supporting the research tanker and attempting to prevent the Magbanua from approaching the Jia Hai Ke 7.
The Jia Hai Ke 7 does not declare an IMO (International Maritime Organization) number and is not listed in international registration databases. According to reports from Chinese media sources, this tanker is privately owned and is less than two years old. It is recognized as a "comprehensive research tanker."
