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

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 and China Coast Guard 4203, but there was no response from the vessel.

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.