The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) clarified that there are no indications that Chinese forces are conducting military exercises in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc in the West Philippine Sea, despite earlier claims from Beijing.

AFP spokesperson Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said that while vessels from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and the China Coast Guard (CCG) were observed operating near the area, coordinated maritime domain awareness efforts from Philippine authorities did not detect any signs of tactical drills or organised military activity.

According to the AFP, the monitored Chinese vessels appeared to be scattered and operating independently rather than engaging in joint formations, manoeuvres, or structured exercises that would indicate a naval drill.The military stressed that there were no observed coordinated movements involving ships or aircraft that could be classified as a formal exercise.

This assessment directly contradicts China’s earlier statement claiming that it had conducted military drills in the area as part of countermeasures related to regional tensions in the South China Sea.

The AFP reiterated its commitment to maintaining vigilance over Philippine maritime territories, particularly in contested waters such as the West Philippine Sea.

It also advised the public to remain cautious about accepting unverified narratives or propaganda claims that may escalate tensions or misrepresent actual activities on the ground.Philippine authorities continue to monitor foreign vessel presence in the area to ensure maritime security and uphold national sovereignty.