Chinese survey ship in EEZ just took shelter from typhoon – Lorenzana

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Sunday said the Chinese survey ship Zhangjian that was again spotted within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone was just taking shelter from the inclement weather. 

“Yes, we know [of the ship's presence],” Lorenzana told GMA News Online in a text message. “We were informed that the ship was surveying in the Pacific Ocean, outside our EEZ. But it sought shelter in our territorial waters when the typhoon hit the area.”

According to the Defense Secretary, the Chinese survey ship immediately left Philippine territory after the weather improved.

“This info was relayed to me by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) based on the Chinese Embassy’s communication to the DFA,” Lorenzana added.

Earlier this month, US Naval War College's China Maritime Studies Institute reported that the Zhangjian was spotted just 80 nautical miles off the east coast of the Philippines.

Malacañang on Tuesday said President Rodrigo Duterte had insisted that foreign vessels seek permission before passing Philippine territory. — Joviland Rita/DVM, GMA News