China reaffirms maritime claims after shadowing PH mission in WPS

MANILA, Philippines — China reiterated its commitment to defending its territorial claims following reports that a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel shadowed a Philippine civilian mission in the West Philippine Sea on Friday morning. In a statement, the Chinese Embassy criticized the Philippine civil society coalition Atin Ito, saying it has “repeatedly attempted to carry out provocative activities under the pretext of safeguarding the Philippines’ territorial sovereignty,” adding that such efforts have “ended in failure.” The embassy stressed that China “will continue to resolutely safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.” The statement came after Atin Ito reported that a CCG vessel, bearing bow number 3103, was observed trailing the Philippine-flagged vessel MV Kapitan Felix Oca, which was en route to Pag-asa Island.

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