Chinese Boats in Disputed S. China Sea Area

Philippine government to file Beijing protest agains 30-strong Chinese fishing fleet encroachment on Spratly Islands waters

China’s 30-ship fleet was reportedly being escorted by a fisheries administration patrol ship and a 3,000-ton supply ship, enough provision for five to 10 days of fishing, according to a 'Manila Standard Today' news report.

Meanwhile, United States Pacific Command chief Admiral Samuel Locklear III reiterated Washington’s commitment to help the Philippines build a “minimum credible defense posture.”

Locklear, who arrived Monday for a three-day visit,  met with President Benigno Aquino III at the Palace where they discussed “in broad strokes” China amid the rising tensions over territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said Locklear’s courtesy call on Mr. Aquino was meant to “reaffirm the long-standing partnership between Washington and Manila.

“Admiral Locklear reiterated the commitment of the US to help the Philippines establish a minimum credible defense posture,” Lacierda said.