CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- Through its Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) monitoring, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has observed an increase in the presence of Chinese vessels in the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal on August 20.
China Coast Guard vessels have been seen conducting maneuvers and drills involving the use of water cannons at sea, while a number of smaller craft such as rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) and fast boats, were also deployed inside the shoal.
Some of the CCG’s fast boats were also observed to have been upgraded with mounted weapons, including heavy crew-served weapons. In total, five (5) China Coast Guard vessels were present, supported by eleven (11) RHIBs/fast boats and nine (9) Chinese maritime militia vessels. Aerial assets were also monitored during the deployment, including one (1) rotary aircraft and one (1) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
The AFP’s MDA activities form part of its continuing monitoring and reporting on developments in the West Philippine Sea as we remain committed to safeguarding Philippine sovereignty and protecting our troops stationed in the area.///
