Philippines Says Over 100 Chinese Militia Vessels Spotted Within Territorial Waters

A Chinese coast guard vessel almost collided with a Philippine coast guard ship in the South China Sea on April 23

A Chinese Coast Guard ship with bow number 5201 blocks Philippine Coast Guard ship BRP Malapascua as it maneuvers to enter the mouth of the Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin Shoal, in the South China Sea on April 23, 2023. Aaron Favila/AP Photo

More than 100 Chinese militia vessels were spotted swarming around the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) last week, refusing to leave despite being ordered to do so, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on April 28.

The PCG said it deployed two vessels—BRP Malapascua and BRP Malabrigo—to conduct a week-long maritime patrol in the South China Sea on April 18 under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s order.