Summary
The Philippine coast guard found a Chinese-made underwater drone in their waters, sparking concerns about unauthorized scientific research by foreign entities. This incident is part of ongoing tensions between the Philippines and China regarding territorial claims in the South China Sea.
Key Facts
- The Philippine coast guard discovered a Chinese-manufactured underwater drone near Palawan.
- Local fishermen found the drone and handed it to authorities.
- The drone had sensors to measure ocean conditions, like temperature and salinity.
- This is not the first time such devices have been found in Philippine waters; some were linked to China.
- The area is disputed, with both the Philippines and China claiming parts of the South China Sea.
- China maintains its territorial claims despite a 2016 international ruling invalidating them.
- Conducting research without permission is illegal in a country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
- An investigation is ongoing to learn more about the drone's use and origin.
