PCG: Fewer Chinese vessels in West PH Sea

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported a decrease in Chinese vessels near Pag-asa Island and Sabina Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

On March 8, PCG observed only 15 suspected Chinese maritime militia vessels near Pag-asa Island, down from 42 last week.

At Sabina Shoal, the number of CMM vessels decreased to 17 from 26 two weeks ago.

Despite this reduction, a PLA Navy warship and a Chinese Coast Guard vessel remain within Pag-asa's territorial waters.

A Chinese Coast Guard ship also continues to patrol near Ayungin Shoal, about six nautical miles from the BRP Sierra Madre.