China increases ships at Bajo de Masinloc after collision

The National Maritime Council suggests that increased Chinese presence around Bajo de Masinloc, or Scarborough Shoal, may be an attempt to mitigate the embarrassment from a recent ship collision involving China's Coast Guard and Navy.

As of August 14, seven Chinese Coast Guard vessels and thirteen maritime militia ships are stationed in the area, compared to the Philippine Coast Guard's single vessel, the BRP Teresa Magbanua.

China's actions follow a collision on August 11 between a CCG vessel and an PLA Navy ship while chasing the Philippines' BRP Suluan; China has not confirmed any casualties from this incident.

Philippine officials suspect that China may have deployed anti-drone technology in the area, preventing Philippine drones from operating successfully.

The Philippines maintains its claim over Bajo de Masinloc based on a 2016 international tribunal ruling, which China does not recognize and continues to assert control through 'friendly consultations' with the Philippines.

Despite ongoing diplomatic protests filed by the Philippines under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration, tensions remain high in the West Philippine Sea due to continued Chinese military presence.