PCG, BFAR spot 29 Chinese militia vessels, hospital ship near Zamora Reef

A routine Maritime Domain Awareness flight conducted by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources observed a significant presence of Chinese vessels in the Kalayaan Island Group within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

During the flight over Zamora Reef, the PCG and BFAR documented one Chinese hospital ship, two China Coast Guard vessels, and 29 Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels (CMMVs).

Three flares were fired from Zamora Reef towards the BFAR aircraft during its lawful overflight.

Near Julian Felipe Reef, 38 CMMVs were observed, with 26 moored together and 12 scattered.

Additionally, 34 CMMVs were scattered around Pagkakaisa Banks.

The flight also noted Vietnamese vessels in the area, including one research/fishing survey vessel near Pag-asa Cay and two fishing vessels and one Coast Guard vessel near Rurok Island.

Unidentified vessels were also spotted within the lagoon of Panganiban Reef.