Manila: The Philippine Navy (PN) has announced the detection of two vessels from the China People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) off the northern coast of Luzon on April 22. These developments highlight ongoing maritime activities in the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, this observation was facilitated by the PN's "intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities." The PLAN vessels were identified at different locations, indicating separate operations. Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, PN spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, reported that the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong was initially detected at approximately 3 a.m., positioned around 101.3 nautical miles off Burgos, Ilocos Norte. By 9:36 a.m., it was located 2.23 nautical miles southwest of Babuyan Island, within the Philippines' archipelagic waters. The latest confirmed position of the Shandong, as of Wednesday, was 179.6 nautical miles east of Patunungan, Sta. Ana, Cagayan.

The Shandong is characterized as a "short take off, barrier arrested recovery" (STOBAR) aircraft carrier, weighing around 60,000 tons and capable of reaching a top speed of 31 knots. The vessel measures 305 meters in length, with a beam of 75 meters, and can carry up to 30 aircraft.

Later that day, at approximately 11:47 a.m., a Type 815A Chinese electronic surveillance ship (AGI-797) was monitored approximately 33.11 nautical miles northwest of Dalupiri Island, or about 38.91 nautical miles northwest of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.

Rear Admiral Trinidad assured that the Philippine Navy remains vigilant, closely monitoring all foreign naval movements within Philippine territory to maintain national sovereignty and maritime security.