The Philippine Navy reported a significant decline in Chinese maritime forces near Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, attributing it to recent weather disturbances.
As of September 7, monitoring showed only seven Chinese maritime militia vessels and two coast guard ships in the area, a decrease from previous weeks.
AFP spokesman Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said the military remains cautious but did not comment on the latest rotation and reprovisioning mission to BRP Sierra Madre.
He added that the AFP is leaving it to the Department of Foreign Affairs to make any statement regarding the reported passage of two US destroyers near the shoal.
The AFP acknowledged awareness only of ongoing maritime cooperative activities involving allied navies.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 10, 2025
