The Philippines has mobilized its military and coast guard assets within its exclusive economic zone to keep a close watch on China‘s largest coast guard vessel, characterizing its presence as an act of Chinese “intimidation, coercion, and aggression.”

The Philippine coast guard reported that the 165-meter (541-foot) vessel, designated as 5901 and referred to by the Philippines as “the monster,” was located approximately 65 to 70 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales province on Sunday.

“We have all our resources focused on this imposing ship. Should it engage in any provocative actions, it will face an appropriate response,” stated Jonathan Malaya, spokesperson for the National Security Council, during an interview with state television on Monday.

China’s embassy in Manila has not yet responded to requests for comment. Relations between China and the Philippines, a U.S. ally, have deteriorated in recent years, with frequent disputes arising as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. seeks to counter what is perceived as Beijing’s aggressive behavior. China has accused the Philippines of repeatedly intruding into its waters.

China asserts sovereignty over the majority of the South China Sea, a vital route for $3 trillion in annual maritime trade, maintaining a significant coast guard presence in the exclusive economic zones of neighboring countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Beijing has dismissed a 2016 ruling from the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which stated that its extensive maritime claims lack legal foundation.

In a video released by the Philippine coast guard, it was shown ordering the Chinese vessel to vacate the area, emphasizing that it lacks the authority to operate there. In response, the Chinese ship claimed it was performing law enforcement duties within its jurisdictional waters.

This reflects China’s tactics of intimidation, coercion, aggression, and deception. They are displaying their vessel to instill fear in our fishermen, Malaya stated, noting that the Philippine maritime presence would be enhanced to provide support for the fishermen.