Philippines files daily protest over Chinese vessels near Julian Felipe Reef

The Philippines has filed another diplomatic protest against China over the presence of at least 32 Chinese vessels near Julian Felipe Reef in the South China Sea.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said it is good that some vessels have left, but continues to call for their removal as they alarm Filipinos.

Foreign Affairs Sec. Teodoro Locsin Jr. vowed to file daily protests until all Chinese ships leave the reef, which lies within the Philippines' EEZ in the West Philippine Sea.

President Duterte sees no need for force and believes the dispute can be resolved peacefully through legal means.