The Philippine Navy on Tuesday reported an increased number of Chinese Vessels in Escoda Shoal in West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In its August 20-26 report, the Navy monitored 40 Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels (CMMV) from 12 ships last 13-19 August.
Philippine Navy Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said this increase is to disrupt the conduct of lawful activities such as resupply mission and maritime research in Escoda Shoal by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
“This is notable in the past days wherein PCG and BFAR ships were subject to coercive and aggressive actions.” Trinidad said.
Trinidad also said the current number of harassment of China in the WPS is concerning with all the coercive and aggressive actions that raises the risk for a miscalculation.
“The Navy and the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) maintain close coordination with the PCG and BFAR to ensure safety and the security of our EEZ (exclusive economic zone),” he said.
The Philippine Navy also said they increased its presence not only in Sabina Shoal, but all over our nine features in the WPS following recent blockage of China in Manila’s resupply mission.
In total, the Navy reported 163 Chinese ships roaming around WPS compared to 129 over the last two weeks.
