Manila: The Philippine government is preparing to confront China over its deployment of a so-called 'monster ship' near Zambales during a bilateral meeting scheduled for January 16. This issue, among other developments in the West Philippine Sea, will be a focal point of the discussions between the two nations.

According to Philippines News Agency, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo confirmed that the Philippine-China Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) meeting will take place in China, with Undersecretary Maria Theresa Lazaro leading the Philippine delegation. When questioned about Manila's stance on the 541-foot-long Chinese coast guard vessel, Manalo affirmed that the Philippines will address its concerns, including the demand for the ship's withdrawal.

While Secretary Manalo refrained from speculating on the meeting's outcomes, he emphasized that the talks aim to foster cooperation between the two countries. Potential areas of collaboration include environmental initiatives and possible coast guard-to-coast guard partnerships. Manalo hinted at the possibility of establishing a memorandum of understanding to formalize this cooperation.

The National Security Council has previously stated that the Philippines does not condone illegal activities by Chinese maritime forces within its waters. It confirmed that the Chinese coast guard vessel 5901, referred to as the 'monster ship,' continues to operate unlawfully within the Philippine exclusive economic zone.