Chinese vessels are deployed in Whitsun Reef in Spratly on March 27, 2021. (Photo: The Philippine Coast Guard)

The continued presence of Chinese vessels around Sinh Ton island cluster reveals their intent to further occupy areas in the South China Sea, according to Lorenzana’s statement. 

It was the second statement by Lorenzana in two days as he repeated calls by the Philippines for the Chinese boats to leave Sinh Ton island cluster of the Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelago. According to Lorenzana, there were still 44 Chinese vessels in the waters despite improved weather conditions.

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs said in a diplomatic protest that the swarming and threatening presence of the Chinese ships creates an atmosphere of instability and shows that China is ignoring its commitments to promoting peace and stability in the region.

Many countries in the world have expressed serious concerns over China’s recent deployment of over 200 ships around Sinh Ton island cluster in Vietnam’s Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelago and requested the country to immediately bring these vessels out of the area and end all provocations.