Jinggoy urges gov’t action on Russian sub ‘incursion’ in local waters

(POLITIKO) Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada has called for government action in response to the Russian submarine that was spotted in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Philippines.

“We urge the relevant authorities–the Department of National Defense, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Department of Foreign Affairs–to take immediate action and clarify the intentions behind this incursion,” he said.

The senator made the call after a Russian diesel-electric attack submarine was spotted last Nov. 28 some 148 kilometers west of Cape Calavite in Occidental Mindoro.

“This situation is concerning, raising significant questions about the stability and security of our already volatile maritime domain, which is a flashpoint for geopolitical tensions,” said Estrada.

“The presence of foreign military assets, especially those with offensive capabilities, increases the risk of misunderstandings and conflicts in an already sensitive region,” he added.

Meanwhile, the National Security Council (NSC) said that the Russian submarine had informed the Philippine Navy that it was on its way to its base in Vladivostok after participating a joint exercise with the Malaysian Navy.