Chinese vessels were observed shadowing naval ships from the Philippines, the United States, and other partner nations taking part in joint maritime exercises in the West Philippine Sea, according to a military official on Thursday.
Colonel Dennis Hernandez, spokesperson for the Philippine side of the Balikatan Exercise, said the presence of Chinese ships was monitored during the ongoing 12-day Multinational Maritime Event (MME), but no untoward incidents were reported.
Hernandez clarified that while Chinese vessels were seen in the vicinity, they did not come close to the participating ships and did not interfere with operations.
“They shadowed, but they were not in close proximity to the ships conducting the maritime event,” he said, adding that the ships appeared to be observing the exercise from a distance.
The MME, which began on April 20 and runs until May 8, involves naval forces from the Philippines, United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada. A total of 11 vessels are participating in the maritime drills.
The Philippines deployed three ships, including the guided-missile frigates BRP Miguel Malvar and BRP Antonio Luna, while Japan contributed three vessels. The United States and Canada each sent two ships, and Australia deployed one.
As of Thursday, participating forces have already completed a series of training activities, including anti-submarine warfare exercises and deck landing operations.
Hernandez said there were no aggressive maneuvers or safety concerns linked to the presence of Chinese vessels, describing their actions as distant observation.
“We just consider it irrelevant. We are not affected by their shadowing,” he said.
He emphasized that the Balikatan exercises are not directed at any country but are designed to improve interoperability among participating forces and strengthen maritime readiness.
Officials reiterated that the drills are conducted in line with international law and aim to uphold a rules-based order in the region.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines also said the exercise highlights the country’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests while enhancing cooperation with allied nations.
This year’s Balikatan exercises are the largest to date, involving more than 17,000 troops across various land, air, and sea training activities.