PCG: 2 China warships spotted off Occidental Mindoro

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has monitored two vessels of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA) of China in the waters off Occidental Mindoro.

In a statement on Saturday, PCG said the Chinese warships were observed 69.31 nautical miles off Cabra Island.

PCG's BRP Teresa Magbanua radio challenged PLA Navy warship 793, but there was no response from the vessel.

Instead, its escort, China Coast Guard 4203, replied, asserting China’s sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.

PCG also noted that the two Chinese vessels were joined by PLA Navy warship 164.

“The movements of these vessels have necessitated several radio challenges from the PCG throughout the day, without response from the PLA Navy warships,” PCG said.

“Additionally, it has been observed that PLA Navy warship 164 is conducting helicopter landing exercises on its flight deck, with continuous activity recorded throughout the morning,” it added.

Tensions continue as Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.

In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines over China's claims in the South China Sea, but the latter refused to recognize the decision. —KG, GMA Integrated News