MANILA, Philippines — China on Monday denied the alleged presence of its maritime militia at the Julian Felipe Reef in the West Philippines Sea after Manila protested the presence of over 200 Chinese ships in the area.
“There is no Chinese Maritime Militia as alleged. Any speculation in such helps nothing but causes unnecessary irritation. It is hoped that the situation could be handled in an objective and rational manner,” the Chinese Embassy in Manila said in a statement.
According to the embassy, it has been “normal practice” for Chinese fishing vessels to take shelter near Julian Felipe Reef, which China calls “Niu’e Jiao.”
“Niu’e Jiao is part of China’s Nansha Qundao …
Keep on reading: No presence of Chinese maritime militia in WPS reef — China embassy