After Catanduanes, more Chinese survey vessels spotted in Ayungin Shoal

The Philippine Navy on Tuesday said that aside from a Chinese research vessel in the waters of Catanduanes, three more survey ships were spotted in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

In a 24 Oras report, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Southern Luzon Command said it is closely monitoring the Chinese ships. The AFP said they are unsure of the ships' exact mission inside the country’s waters.

Authorities said the 3 Chinese survey ships in Ayungin were the latest to enter Philippine territory.

Meanwhile, the local government unit in Catanduanes has asked residents in the coastal communities to immediately report any suspicious activity of the foreign ships.

The Navy said the presence of the Chinese ships coincided with the ongoing Balikatan or joint military exercise of the Philippines and United States but advised the public not to be alarmed.

Chinese naval forces have been active and aggressive during what is described as the "largest" Balikatan ever.

China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels on Tuesday fired water cannons at Philippine civilian vessels en route to Scarborough (Panatag) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) for a supply mission,

On Monday, several Chinese warships shadowed the naval flotilla of the Philippines, United States and France on the third day of the Balikatan Exercise in the West Philippine Sea.

The number of Chinese vessels also increased in the West Philippines Sea according to the Navy, surging to up to 124 that ranged from People's Liberation Army and Navy (PLAN) warships to maritime militia vessels.—RF, GMA Integrated News