Philippine Navy verifying underwater structures in Bajo de Masinloc

The Philippine Navy is currently verifying reports of underwater structures discovered in Bajo de Masinloc, located in the West Philippine Sea.

Philippine Navy spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad stated that the military is investigating whether these structures are new installations.

Trinidad recalled a past incident in 1997 where Filipino forces dismantled a steel structure attempted to be built by China in the same area.

He also mentioned earlier reports of building blocks in Bajo de Masinloc, which were found to be remnants from the time the area was used as a bombing range by the US and Philippine Air Forces.

This verification comes after China announced the establishment of a national nature reserve in Bajo de Masinloc on September 10.

The Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has since formally lodged a diplomatic protest against China's plan.