By Priam Nepomuceno

SHARP LOOKOUT. A sailor from the Navy’s guided missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), keenly observes an unidentified Chinese naval ship somewhere off Bajo de Masinloc on Monday (Feb. 3, 2025). The Naval Forces Northern Luzon said the Filipino ship was conducting “regular maritime and sovereignty patrol” off Bajo de Masinloc when it monitored the presence of three of China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships in the area. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Navy)

MANILA – Guided-missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), is keeping close watch on three China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels spotted off Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea on Monday, the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL) said.

In a statement, NFNL said the Filipino ship was conducting “regular maritime and sovereignty patrol” when it monitored the presence of three PLAN ships in the area.

This mission was ordered by the Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom).

“While conducting patrols at approximately 57 nautical miles southeast of Bajo de Masinloc, BRP Jose Rizal warned off and issued consecutive radio challenges to three China’s PLAN ships spotted in the area. One of the said PLAN (ships) is a guided missile Jiangkai II-class frigate, ‘Dali’ (FFG-553),” it added.

NFNL said the presence of the PLAN in the area reflects the People’s Republic of China’s complete disregard for international law and undermines the peace and stability in the region.

“The NFNL, in support of the Nolcom’s mission, continues to stand firm to conduct lawful maritime operations, expose, and challenge the illegal presence of Chinese vessels within the country’s exclusive economic zone,” it added. (PNA)