The Philippines has seen a largest deployment of Chinese flotilla to date in Pagasa Islands, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said Monday.
According to PCG Spokesperson for West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela, this was observed during Sunday’s humanitarian mission for local fishermen in the area.
The flotilla—more than 15 Chinese maritime militia ships, five China Coast Guard vessels, a People’s Liberation Army Navy ship, and a helicopter—came as close as 1.6 to 1.8 nautical miles from the island’s shores.
“This is the closest the Chinese Coast Guard has harassed and bullied BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources) vessels,” Tarriela said in a media briefing. “It is very close to Pagasa Island.”
Chinese ships also used water cannons against BFAR vessels during the aid distribution for local fishermen.
The Chinese flotilla’s proximity falls well within the territorial waters of Pagasa Island, which is part of Kalayaan town in Palawan province.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said it will file a diplomatic protest against China after a Chinese ship “deliberately rammed” BRP Datu Pagbuaya that was providing cover for Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea.
