Philippines files diplomatic protest over 200+ Chinese vessels near Whitsun Reef

On Sunday, March 21, the Philippines filed a diplomatic protest against China over the presence of more than 200 Chinese vessels near Julian Felipe Reef (Whitsun Reef) in the West Philippine Sea.

Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. tweeted that he filed the protest upon recommendation from National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr.

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea reported that these vessels, allegedly manned by Chinese maritime militia personnel, showed no signs of actual fishing activities and were moored in a line formation.