The Philippines has protested the return of over 100 Chinese vessels “illegally operating” in and around Julian Felipe Reef on April 4, barely a year after the same swarming incident took place. This was disclosed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday night, June 9. In its diplomatic protest, the Philippines called on China to “immediately withdraw all of its vessels” from Philippine maritime zones.

Unite, B. V. (2022, June 11). PH tells China to withdraw over 100 vessels from Julian Felipe Reef. Manila Bulletin, pp. 1, 8.