29 Chinese naval, coast guard ships in WPS in past week

MANILA – A total of 29 Chinese maritime vessels, including 20 China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels and nine People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships, were monitored in four key features of the West Philippine Sea from November 3 to 8.

Based on monitoring data from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the highest number was recorded at Ayungin Shoal, with nine CCG vessels and one PLAN ship, bringing the total to 10.

Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal had eight Chinese vessels monitored, consisting of five CCG ships and three PLAN vessels.

At Escoda Shoal, three CCG vessels and three PLAN ships were recorded, while Pag-asa Island had three CCG vessels and two PLAN ships.