President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed alarm at a Russian submarine sighting in the Philippines’ EEZ, labeling it “very worrisome.” The submarine, identified as UFA 490, was sighted off Occidental Mindoro on November 28. Philippine naval forces are monitoring such incursions amid ongoing regional tensions, particularly with China’s maritime claims.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed significant concern on Monday regarding the presence of a Russian attack submarine within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea. He stated, “That’s very concerning. Any intrusion into the West Philippine Sea, of our EEZ, of our baselines, is very worrisome,” underscoring the implications for national security. The Russian Kilo-class submarine, identified as UFA 490, was reported to be located 80 nautical miles off Occidental Mindoro, as confirmed by Philippine Navy spokesperson Roy Vincent Trinidad. The Philippine naval frigate Jose Rizal established communication with the submarine, which reported it was awaiting improved weather conditions before continuing its journey to Vladivostok, Russia. Phillipine naval forces monitored the situation to ensure maritime compliance. The presence of such a vessel raises alarm, especially amidst ongoing regional tensions concerning territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

The South China Sea is a critical and contested maritime zone, rich in natural resources and vital shipping lanes. The Philippines has long been embroiled in territorial disputes with China, which asserts sweeping claims over the area, despite a 2016 ruling from an arbitral tribunal declaring these claims invalid. The recent sighting of a Russian submarine adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in light of the partnership declared between China and Russia, exemplified by their joint military exercises. As a treaty ally of the United States, the Philippines is vigilant in monitoring foreign military activity within its territorial waters.

In conclusion, the sighting of the Russian Kilo-class submarine within the Philippines’ EEZ is a matter of grave concern for national security, as articulated by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The incident underscores the delicate balance of power in the South China Sea, especially in the context of increasing military cooperation between Russia and China. As tensions persist, the Philippines remains vigilant to safeguard its maritime interests against intrusions by foreign entities.

Original Source: www.voanews.com

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