157 Chinese ships in WPS from Sept. 10 to 16

The number of Chinese ships spotted in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) decreased to 157 from Sept. 10 to 16, down from 207 ships logged from Sept. 3 to 9.

From Sept. 10 to 16, the Philippine Navy recorded 123 Chinese maritime militia vessels, 26 China Coast Guard (CCG) ships, seven People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) warships, and one research vessel in various WPS features.

Chinese ships were concentrated at Escoda Shoal with nine CCGs, four PLANs, and 52 maritime militia vessels, while Bajo de Masinloc saw six CCGs, three PLANs, eight CMMs, and a research vessel.

Despite the departure of BRP Teresa Magbanua from Escoda Shoal due to weather conditions and supply concerns, Philippine vessels can still access the area as it has multiple entry points.

Tensions remain between China and the Philippines amid China's continued presence in WPS features such as Sabina Shoal, despite the decline in overall ship numbers.