The Armed Forces of the Philippines monitored more than 21,000 vessels in April as the military intensified maritime surveillance operations amid continued foreign presence and tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
Data released by the Philippine Navy showed that 21,052 vessels were tracked from April 1 to 30. Of the total, 3,528 were local vessels while 17,524 were foreign-flagged ships.
As part of standard maritime monitoring procedures, naval forces conducted radio challenges to vessels operating in Philippine waters. Authorities said 14,343 vessels responded, while 6,709 failed to acknowledge calls.
Military officials said the radio challenges are part of efforts to strengthen maritime domain awareness, assert the country’s presence at sea, and enforce maritime regulations within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
The AFP emphasized that sustained monitoring operations are essential to protecting national sovereignty and maintaining safety and order in Philippine waters.
In the West Philippine Sea, the Navy reported the presence of 62 Chinese vessels associated with the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA-N) and the China Coast Guard (CCG) across several disputed features.
The highest concentration was monitored near Bajo de Masinloc, where 24 vessels were recorded. Another 17 vessels were spotted near Escoda Shoal, while 12 were monitored near Ayungin Shoal and nine near Pag-asa Island.
Military officials described the continued presence of the Chinese vessels as part of “illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive” activities that undermine international norms and challenge the Philippines’ sovereign rights.
Despite the continued tensions, the AFP said it remains committed to defending the country’s maritime interests through heightened operational readiness, improved domain awareness, and closer coordination with partner agencies.