President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed concern about the sighting of a Russian attack submarine in the West Philippine Sea last week, calling it a worrisome intrusion.
“Any intrusion into the West Philippine Sea, of our EEZ, of our baselines is very worrisome,” Marcos told reporters, adding that the Philippine military would address the situation further.
The submarine, identified as the Russian Navy’s Ufa, was first detected 80 nautical miles west of Occidental Mindoro on November 28 after departing from Malaysia. The Philippine Navy immediately deployed an aircraft and a warship to monitor the vessel, which remained on the surface while moving slowly northward and staying outside the country’s territorial waters.
According to the Philippine Navy, the Ufa stated it was waiting for better weather before continuing its journey to Vladivostok, Russia. Radio communication was established with the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), confirming the submarine’s identity, crew details, and navigational plans.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, affirmed the military’s vigilance in safeguarding the country’s maritime sovereignty.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reiterated its adherence to international maritime laws.
