Over 200 Chinese ships spread in West Philippine Sea reefs

Over 200 Chinese ships are now spread across various reefs in the West Philippine Sea, according to the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) on Wednesday.

The NTF-WPS reiterated the country's sovereignty over its 200-mile exclusive economic zone and called on China to withdraw these vessels from Philippine waters.

The task force noted that these ships are likely maritime militia rather than fishing vessels, posing a hazard to navigation and safety of life at sea.

NTF-WPS also expressed concern about potential illegal activities by the Chinese ships at night and the environmental damage they may cause.