Photo credit: Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Ray Powell Twitter

In a move that's raising eyebrows, China has sent six militia ships to escort its Haiyang Dizhi 12 Hao research vessel, which is conducting a survey just 27 nautical miles from the Philippines' coastline. These ships, part of China’s Qiong Sansha Yu militia fleet, are operating well within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Here's the thing—according to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), surveying another country's EEZ requires permission from that country. But in this case, no such permission has been granted by the Philippines, making this situation a serious concern.

This latest incident has once again highlighted the tense maritime relations between the two countries. Many Filipinos and officials are questioning China’s intentions, especially with such a significant military presence accompanying a research vessel.

The big question now is: What’s next for the Philippines? Will there be diplomatic action, or will tensions escalate further? One thing’s for sure—this isn't the first time, and it likely won't be the last, that China has tested the waters of international maritime law.