China’s ‘Monster’ Ship Back In Disputed Waters, Philippines Says

By Manolo Serapio Jr.

Jan 11, 2025 (Bloomberg) –The Philippines said a huge Chinese coast guard ship widely known as the “Monster” has returned to its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, prompting its own coast guard vessel to approach and issue a radio challenge.

A Philippine Coast Guard ship, BRP Teresa Magbanua, approached the 12,000-ton Chinese patrol ship’s “starboard side at close range, effectively hindering the China Coast Guard vessel’s attempts to move” towards the coastline of the western province of Zambales, spokesman Jay Tarriela said in a post on X late Saturday. The Chinese “Monster” ship has replaced another vessel, CCG 3304, in the area,  he said.