The Philippine Navy reported a record high of 207 Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea this week, following the passage of a tropical storm. This number surpasses previous records for the year.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Navy's spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, stated that while some Chinese vessels withdrew during the storm, they were quickly replaced by others. He emphasized that "no number is acceptable," as even a single Chinese ship within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is considered unacceptable.
Trinidad explained that the observed number of vessels falls within the expected range of the South Sea Fleet, the Chinese Coast Guard, and the maritime militia. He stated that as long as these forces remain within the theater and do not bring in additional forces from other fleets, the situation remains within their normal capabilities.
Recent data revealed the presence of 182 maritime militia vessels, 18 China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, 6 People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels, and 1 research and survey vessel in the area from September 3 to 9. This number slightly exceeded the 203 ships recorded from August 27 to September 2.
The majority of these vessels were concentrated in Escoda Shoal, the center of recent Chinese hostilities, swarming around the lone Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua.
Trinidad also mentioned an increased deployment of Chinese vessels in Rozul Reef (Iroquois Reef), with 58 maritime militia ships and 1 PLAN vessel. The Navy is currently assessing the reason for this increase.
Despite the damage sustained during a ramming incident by a CCG vessel on August 31, the BRP Teresa Magbanua remains seaworthy, according to Trinidad. He assured that the Philippine Navy and the Armed Forces of the Philippines are prepared to support the PCG in maintaining its presence in Escoda Shoal.
This development has raised concerns among analysts, who believe stronger actions are needed to deter China's activities in the West Philippine Sea.
