The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has driven away two China Coast Guard (CCG) ships spotted just 34 nautical miles off Bolinao, Pangasinan while also challenging the return of China's "Monster Ship" within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) near Zambales.

PCG aircraft conducted aerial surveillance over CCG vessels 3104 and 3301, which were seen patrolling Philippine waters over the weekend.

The PCG issued a radio challenge, asserting Philippine sovereignty:

"You do not possess any legal authority to patrol within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone," they said.

However, the Chinese vessels reportedly did not respond.

The BRP Cabra and BRP Bagacay were deployed to monitor the area further.

China has continued regular patrols within the Philippine EEZ, which PCG officials say is an illegal and concerning act.

Despite this, the PCG has committed to handling the situation professionally to avoid escalating tensions in disputed waters.

MONSTER SHIP RETURNS NEAR ZAMBALES

Meanwhile, the massive CCG Vessel 5901, dubbed the "Monster Ship," was spotted 110 nautical miles off Zambales.

It replaced CCG Vessel 3304, which the PCG claimed to have driven away earlier.

The BRP Teresa Magbanua challenged the ship based on the 2016 Arbitral Award. They reminded the Chinese crew that they were in Philippine waters:

"To China Coast Guard vessel 5901, this is Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua... you are advised that you are currently sailing within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone."

China, however, refused to acknowledge the ruling, responding:

"The so-called award for the South China Sea arbitration is illegal and invalid. China neither questions nor recognizes it. China firmly upholds its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea."

The Chinese Embassy is yet to release a statement.