Philippine authorities have detected a Chinese research vessel, the Tong Ji, operating near Panatag Shoal, also known as Scarborough Shoal. This observation occurred just after the Philippines confirmed the dismantling of a controversial floating barrier installed by China in the area. The platform’s removal followed protests from Manila, which asserted its sovereign rights over the shoal. The presence of the research vessel raises renewed concerns about China’s activities in the South China Sea. Philippine officials documented the vessel during a routine maritime surveillance flight. The incident underscores ongoing tensions between the two nations regarding territorial claims in the region. Further monitoring of the Chinese vessel’s activities is expected.