ABS-CBN
PH Navy: More than 200 Chinese ships sighted in West Philippine Sea
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported monitoring 203 Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea from August 27 to September 2, marking the highest number recorded this year.
These vessels included 165 Chinese maritime militia ships, 24 China Coast Guard vessels, 12 People's Liberation Army Navy ships, and two research vessels.
The highest concentration of Chinese vessels was observed at Escoda Shoal, with nine CCG, nine PLAN, and 53 CMMs.
Significant numbers were also noted at Sabina Shoal, Ayungin Shoal, Pagasa Islands, and Bajo de Masinloc.
During this period, a China Coast Guard vessel rammed the Philippine Coast Guard's largest ship, BRP Teresa Magbanua, causing hull damage, although no crew members were injured.
Philippine Navy spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinindad stated that while the surge is not normal, it is within China's projected capability in the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea.
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The Philippine Navy (PN) monitored an increase in Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) from August 20 to 26, with 163 ships observed.
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The China Coast Guard (CCG) and People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) deployed a combined seven vessels, along with 36 Chinese maritime militia vessels, to block two Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels, BRP Cabra and BRP Cape Engaño, at Escoda Shoal.
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A Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel deliberately rammed the Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) largest vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua, at Escoda Shoal, punching a man-sized hole through its hull.
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The Philippines has lodged a note verbale against China following recent aggressive actions by Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea.
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Throughout August, China engaged in multiple aggressive actions against the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea.
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