AFP monitors, challenges 4 Chinese navy vessels in Balabac Strait

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) monitored and challenged the presence of four Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessels transiting through the Balabac Strait between Palawan and Borneo.

The identified vessels were the PLAN destroyer Luyang III (DDG-168) and frigate Jiangkai II (FFG-570), spotted heading southwest at 13 knots at 1:49 p.m. on June 19.

Two other PLAN vessels, the destroyer Renhai (CG-105) and replenishment oiler Fuchi (AOR-907), were monitored moving southwest at 15 knots at 3:56 p.m. on the same day.

AFP spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad stated that these vessels were challenged as part of standard operating procedure and responded accordingly.

Trinidad affirmed the AFP's vigilance in safeguarding maritime interests and protecting Philippine territory, sovereignty, and sovereign rights.

A former barangay chairman in Balabac, Palawan reported spotting two of the Chinese ships while returning from a medical mission.