The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported a decline in the number of Chinese vessels monitored in key areas of the West Philippine Sea in April, although officials said the continued presence still reflects ongoing maritime tensions.
AFP Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral (Ret.) Roy Vincent Trinidad said a total of 62 Chinese ships, 41 from the China Coast Guard and 21 from the People’s Liberation Army Navy, were tracked across four strategic locations last month. This was lower than the 90 vessels recorded in March.
At Bajo de Masinloc, the military monitored 24 Chinese ships in April, a significant drop from 49 in the previous month. Of the April count, 15 were coast guard vessels while nine were naval ships. The shoal, located about 124 nautical miles off Zambales, has been under Chinese control since a 2012 standoff.
Other areas also saw reduced activity. In Pag-asa Island, nine Chinese vessels were logged, down from 15 in March. Meanwhile, Ayungin Shoal recorded 12 vessels, slightly fewer than the 14 noted the previous month.
However, the AFP observed an uptick in Chinese presence near Escoda Shoal, where 17 ships were monitored in April, compared to 12 in March.
Despite the overall decrease, Trinidad said the sustained deployment of Chinese vessels reflects what the military described as “illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive” activities that challenge international norms and undermine the Philippines’ sovereignty.
The AFP reiterated its commitment to maintaining vigilance in the region, emphasizing continued monitoring and documentation of foreign vessel movements. Trinidad said the military will uphold a professional and steady presence at sea to safeguard the country’s maritime interests and ensure the protection of its resources for future generations.