The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has confirmed an ongoing significant deployment of Chinese maritime forces in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), even after a temporary disruption caused by adverse weather conditions. Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, revealed in a weekly report covering July 21 to 27 that 23 Chinese vessels, comprising both China Coast Guard (CCG) and People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships, continue to operate within the country’s territorial waters.

Trinidad provided a detailed breakdown of the vessels’ distribution: seven Chinese Coast Guard and seven PLAN ships are stationed at Bajo de Masinloc; four Coast Guard and two PLAN vessels at Ayungin Shoal; one PLAN ship at Sabina Shoal with no Coast Guard presence; and one Coast Guard and one PLAN ship at Pag-asa Island, summing to a total of 23 vessels.

The spokesperson also noted that between July 19 and 21, harsh weather due to Typhoon Crising and a strengthened southwest monsoon forced Chinese maritime forces in Bajo de Masinloc to temporarily retreat to ensure their safety. Despite this, the AFP maintains vigilant surveillance over the area.

Rear Adm. Trinidad emphasized the military’s steadfast dedication to safeguarding the Philippines’ sovereign rights and upholding freedom of navigation within the region amid ongoing tensions.