By bno - Taipei Bureau The Philippines has expressed growing concern over China’s deployment of its largest coast guard vessel within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), calling the move a provocative escalation.

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.

In response to a media inquiry regarding the Philippine National Security Council spokesperson’s claims about China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels in the South China Sea, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday that CCG conducts patrols in relevant waters in accordance with the law,