The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported that 36 Chinese vessels were observed in critical areas of the West Philippine Sea this week, an increase from 27 last week.The vessels were tracked from May 19 to May 25 around Panatag Shoal, Ayungin Shoal, Escoda Shoal, and Pag-asa Island.Panatag Shoal hosted the largest number, with 19 ships, including 10 People’s Liberation Army Navy warships and nine Chinese Coast Guard vessels.AFP emphasized that their presence remains illegal despite China's claim that the area is a nature reserve.

Other monitored locations included Ayungin Shoal, Escoda Shoal, and Pag-asa Island, with various combinations of Chinese military and coast guard ships.The shoals and islands lie well within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

China continues to assert territorial claims over nearly all of the South China Sea, disregarding the 2016 international tribunal ruling that upheld Philippine sovereignty over these waters.

The AFP continues to monitor the situation without speculating on China’s intentions, reiterating that the presence of these vessels violates international law and Philippine rights.