203 Chinese ships in West Philippine Sea; PH CG ship damaged

A total of 203 Chinese ships were spotted in the West Philippine Sea from August 27 to September 2, marking a significant increase over the previous week.

Of these, 71 vessels were observed near Sabina Shoal, including 53 Maritime Militia Vessels, nine Coast Guard Vessels, and nine warships; Escoda Shoal saw the highest concentration with 61 vessels, followed by Pagasa Island with 52 ships and Iroquois Reef with 36.

The Philippine Navy reported that this is the highest number of Chinese vessels recorded in the West Philippine Sea for the year, emphasizing the need to uphold international law and protect territorial integrity.

In the latest incident at Escoda Shoal, a Chinese Coast Guard ship repeatedly rammed Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua, causing damage to the Philippine ship.

China's actions have drawn criticism from the international community, with the Philippines contemplating another arbitral case against China over recent incidents in Escoda Shoal.