The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has raised concerns over the growing number of Chinese fishing vessels spotted in the disputed West Philippine Sea, with the latest swarming seen as a “threat” to oil and gas-rich Recto Bank’s security.
Describing it as “a concerning development,” the AFP reported Friday that pilots aboard NV312—a Britten Norman Islander light patrol aircraft of the Philippine Navy—saw an “alarming presence” of Chinese vessels during their latest air patrol on June 30.
“[They] were observed to be anchored in groups of five to seven and no fishing activities were noticed. They seem to just loiter in the area,” Lieutenant Karla Andres, co-pilot of NV312, also said. "Recto Bank, a significant feature for the Philippines holding immense potential for the country’s energy security and economic growth, stands as a focal point in this rising concern over China’s recent behavior,” it also said.
The military’s statement came days after news reports surfaced about Chinese militia vessels allegedly shadowing and blocking Filipino coast guards on a resupply mission at Ayungin Shoal.
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