Chinese ship, aircraft spotted by PH-US joint sea, air patrol in WPS

Several Chinese assets were spotted in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on Wednesday during the second day of joint patrol operations conducted by the Philippines and United States in the highly-disputed waters.

According to Jun Veneracion's "24 Oras" report, a Chinese frigate was seen reportedly tailing US ships approximately five miles away, inside the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

A Chinese aircraft was also spotted over the WPS which appeared to be observing the activities of the two allied countries during their joint maritime and aerial patrols.

China did not conduct radio challenges or other aggressive actions during Wednesday's joint patrols.

"Nothing unusual. Both parties conducted themselves professionally and normally, which we are always out here trying to do," US Navy Lieutenant Commander Tim Cline said.

Meanwhile, a US Navy P-8 Poseidon aircraft conducted a four-hour aerial surveillance during the patrol operations. The plane is equipped with high-tech cameras and sensors that can scan from long range and detect submarines underwater.

"All mission objectives were met today. We got out of our normal routine patrol of the area. Happy to announce it was a mission success," Cline added.

On Monday, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. underscored that the growing tension in the WPS required a partnership with the US, saying the partnership will maintain peace in the resource-rich region.

The Philippines and the US began their joint maritime and air patrols in the WPS on Tuesday.
—RF, GMA Integrated News