The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has monitored the presence of 40 Chinese vessels within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) from 1-31 March.

In a press conference in Tanay, Rizal, on Tuesday, AFP Public Affairs chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said among these vessels monitored were 8 People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and 14 China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough).

Meanwhile, six CCG vessels were also sighted in Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal), as well as seven PLAN and five CCG vessels in Sabina (Escoda) Shoal.

“It is important to note that these vessels were monitored at any given time throughout the entire period. They were not stationary but may have transited through the area at various points during the given timeframe,” Trinidad stressed.

“These efforts are aligned with the country's enhanced external defense posture and reinforce the AFP's strategic mission to maintain stability in the region,” he added.

Trinidad said the AFP remains committed to securing the WPS and upholding the country's sovereignty and maritime rights “through active defense and strategic monitoring.”

The AFP monitored a total of 15,060 vessels in the overall maritime traffic of the WPS.