Chinese navy shadows PH-led joint drill with allies

On Wednesday, August 7, 2024, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported that three Chinese Navy vessels followed a joint military exercise by Philippine, Australian, Canadian, and U.S. forces.

Despite China's announcement to hold a 'joint combat patrol' in Scarborough Shoal, AFP confirmed no Chinese military activity there but noted the presence of Chinese maritime militia vessels.

The ongoing Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) involved various naval and air assets from all four countries and concluded on Thursday evening within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone under the AFP's Western Command area.

Philippine Navy spokesperson Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad stated that while there is no cause for concern, they are closely monitoring Chinese vessels to ensure territorial sovereignty based on international law.

The MMCA featured exercises aimed at enhancing interoperability and tactical capabilities among participating forces, with activities including pre-sail briefings, communication exercises, anti-submarine warfare drills, and cross-deck landing operations.