Philippine Navy downplays Chinese PLA tugboat near Ayungin Shoal

On Tuesday, the Philippine Navy downplayed the presence of a Chinese PLA Navy tugboat near Ayungin Shoal, stating it does not pose an immediate threat.

Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad confirmed that the vessel was spotted five nautical miles from the grounded BRP Sierra Madre and is likely there for its own use rather than to tow away the ship.

The number of Chinese vessels in the area has increased since August 20, with up to 13 maritime militia vessels, two Coast Guard ships, and one PLA Navy tugboat spotted near Ayungin Shoal on Monday.

Trinidad emphasized that moving BRP Sierra Madre would require more than just a tugboat, stating it is anchored firmly on corals.

The Philippines continues to assert its sovereign rights over Ayungin Shoal based on the 2016 Arbitral Award that rejected China's claims in the South China Sea.