No sign of drilling from Chinese ship lurking in Bajo de Masinloc - AFP

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The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said the Chinese vessel that was spotted in Bajo de Masinloc for 28 days was conducting research and surveillance, but did not conduct any drilling.

AFP Special Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad reiterated the country’s claim over the disputed waters, particularly Bajo de Masinloc, also known as the Panatag Shoal.

“On the Chinese research vessel that was spotted for 25 days...28 days in Bajo de Masinloc, the presence and the track would indicate that they were conducting surveillance or research activities,” Trinidad told reporters.

“As to any report of drilling activities, there was none that was confirmed, nor were there any reports given by our monitoring capabilities,” he added.

Trinidad explained that for the vessel to be able to drill, it needed to remain stationary. He said the AFP also has other sensors to determine such activities.

“The tracks indicated not a continuous pattern. It was not only transiting. But to be able to conduct drilling activities, it should be stationary,” the Navy officer added.

The presence of the Chinese vessel was initially called out by Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela.

China has continuously laid its claim to Philippine waters despite the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, with numerous maritime encounters between Filipino and Chinese personnel. —Jean Mangaluz/RF, GMA News