Manila Bulletin
Tensions rise as PH, Chinese vessels come face-to-face at Sabina Shoal
The Philippine Navy is closely monitoring a large China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel, identified as bow number 5901 and dubbed a "monster ship," which has been present at Sabina Shoal since July 30.
This CCG vessel is accompanied by a Chinese research vessel, the Ke Xue San Hao, which has been in the area for two weeks, conducting unusual zigzagging patterns.
The Philippine Navy increased its patrols after the Ke Xue San Hao's activities raised alarms, especially since no request for a survey was filed.
Sabina Shoal, also known as Escoda Shoal, is becoming a new flashpoint in the maritime conflict between the Philippines and China.
The increased Philippine presence aims to investigate an unusual accumulation of crushed corals discovered in April, to confirm they were not artificially placed.
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The Philippine Navy continues to monitor the Chinese research vessel "Ke Xue San Hao" near Sabina Shoal, noting its erratic "zigzag" movements and advanced marine environment observation technology.
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China's air force engaged in "dangerous maneuvers" near Scarborough Shoal on August 8, disrupting a Philippine Air Force (PAF) maritime patrol.
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The Philippine Navy reported a surge in Chinese naval, coast guard, and research ships in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) from August 6 to 12, with a total of 92 vessels observed, a decrease from the previous week's 122.
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The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported 122 Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) from July 30 to August 5, 2024, an increase from the 104 vessels observed the previous week.
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China conducted a joint air and sea combat patrol near the disputed Scarborough Shoal on Wednesday to test its strike capabilities.
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