The Philippine Navy has detected new barriers near Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal while investigating reports of underwater structures, which may be remnants of old installations previously seen in the area, according to Navy spokesperson Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad.
He said these findings coincide with recent incidents of “coercive and aggressive” maneuvers by China Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels around Philippine-held territories, including Pag-asa Island and Bajo de Masinloc.
Trinidad noted that China’s continued presence in the West Philippine Sea heightens the risk of escalation despite the 2016 arbitral ruling affirming the Philippines’ sovereign rights.
The Navy also reported a recent “show of water cannon force” by Chinese vessels near Bajo de Masinloc during a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) activity.
Trinidad condemned such actions as “unacceptable and dangerous,” warning that they endanger lives and regional stability.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 15, 2025
