PH navy warship monitored, tailed by 4 Chinese vessels — PCG

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 4) — A Philippine Navy warship was monitored and tailed by two Chinese Coast Guard vessels and two Chinese maritime militias near Mischief Reef - a low-tide elevation located in the Spratly Islands, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed Saturday.

PCG spokesperson Commodore Armand Balilo said the Chinese maritime militia "fishing vessels/boats" even conducted an intercept course toward the Philippine Navy warship.

On Feb. 1, BRP Andres Bonifacio adjusted its course to the west as China maritime militia vessels had closed proximity of about eight kilometers, security innovator Ray Powell reported.

READ: PCG: Assets to defend fishermen in WPS not enough but gov't in talks with other nations

Mischief Reef is within the 200 nautical miles exclusive economic zone of the Philippines.

Balilo said the BRP Andres Bonifacio was conducting a patrol and search mission during that time.

Although it was monitored and tailed, the official said Chinese vessels did not interfere in the operation and mission of BRP Andres Bonifacio.

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