The Philippine Navy has expressed concern over the growing number of Chinese maritime militia vessels in the West Philippine Sea, particularly at the Escoda and Iroquois Reefs.
The statement follows reports of a surge in Chinese ships within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, described the situation as alarming.
The Navy has also discovered damaged corals, which are reportedly being impacted by Chinese activities.
According to the latest data from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, there are now 40 Chinese maritime militia vessels recorded at Escoda Shoal, up from the 12 vessels previously monitored in recent weeks. Additionally, 17 Chinese ships have been spotted at Iroquois Reef.
Overall, the data indicates a total of 163 Chinese maritime militia vessels, including those from the People’s Liberation Army, Navy and the China Coast Guard.