Record Number of Chinese Vessels Spotted in West Philippine Sea

According to the Philippine Navy, there has been a record-breaking sighting of at least 207 Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea. This new high was recorded after a powerful storm swept through the region.

Chinese Vessels in Philippine Waters

During a regular media briefing at Camp Aguinaldo, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, stated that some Chinese vessels retreated during the tropical storm Enteng, but were quickly replaced by other ships. Trinidad emphasized that even a single ship within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is unacceptable. Trinidad further explained that the numbers are within the range of the South Sea Fleet, the Chinese Coast Guard, and the maritime militia's force projection capability. As long as these forces don't bring in additional forces from the East Sea Fleet and the North Sea Fleet, this is still within their normal range of capability.

Recent Data on Vessel Presence

Data from September 3 to 9 showed that there were 182 maritime militia vessels, 18 China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, 6 People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels, and 1 research and survey vessel in the area. This is a slight increase from the 203 ships recorded from August 27 to September 2. Most of the vessels were concentrated around Escoda Shoal, the recent hotspot of Chinese hostilities, surrounding the lone Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua.

Increased Deployment at Rozul Reef

Trinidad also mentioned an increased deployment of Chinese vessels at Rozul Reef (Iroquois Reef), with 58 maritime militia ships and 1 from PLAN. The Philippine Navy is still assessing the reason for this increase.

Philippine Navy's Support for PCG

Despite the damage it sustained during a collision with a CCG vessel on August 31, Trinidad assured that the BRP Teresa Magbanua remains seaworthy. He also stated that the Philippine Navy and the Armed Forces of the Philippines are prepared to support the PCG in maintaining its presence at Escoda Shoal.

Bottom Line

The record-high presence of Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea raises significant concerns about territorial integrity and maritime security. The Philippine Navy's commitment to supporting the Coast Guard in maintaining its presence in the area is a strong statement of sovereignty. What are your thoughts on this situation? Do you think the increased presence of Chinese vessels poses a threat to the Philippines? Share this article with your friends and let us know your thoughts. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.