No construction of Chinese military base in Scarborough Shoal — AFP

Here's a rewritten version of the blog post with a polished and professional tone

Title No Chinese Military Base Construction in Scarborough Shoal, Confirms Philippines' Armed Forces

The recent claims by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez that China has constructed a military installation in Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) have been disputed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). According to Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, AFP spokesman for the West Philippine Sea (WPS), there is no evidence of any construction activity on the disputed waters.

Monitoring Activities

The AFP has been closely monitoring the situation in Scarborough Shoal and other areas within the WPS. Between February 15-22, the Philippine Navy reported sightings of 18 Chinese maritime forces, including PLA Navy ships, CCGs, and CMM vessels. In Bajo de Masinloc, four PLA Navy ships and five CCGs were spotted, while Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal had four CCGs, Escoda (Sabina) Shoal had two PLA Navy ships and one CCG, and Pagasa Island had one PLA Navy and one CCG within its vicinity.

Clarifying Missile Presence

Romualdez also stated that China has deployed more missiles inside Bajo de Masinloc. However, the AFP clarified this statement by noting that any warships would be armed with different missiles. Therefore, it is likely that the missiles referred to are those aboard the warships and not actually deployed within the shoal.

Enhancing Defense Capabilities

The AFP welcomes all support that would enable it to strengthen its defense posture. This includes the recent announcement by the United States to deploy more high-tech missile systems to the Philippines following an annual strategic dialogue between both countries. The AFP sees this as a great opportunity to train with modern weapons and fill the gap while awaiting its modernization program.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Philippine military has not monitored any construction of a Chinese military base in Scarborough Shoal. Instead, it has detected the presence of PLA Navy ships, CCGs, and CMM vessels within the WPS. The AFP is committed to strengthening its defense posture and welcomes support from other countries, such as the United States.

Keywords Scarborough Shoal, China, Philippine Military, West Philippine Sea, PLA Navy, CCGs, CMM vessels, missiles

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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