Photo credit: Philippine Navy

This Friday, August 2, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported an intriguing development in the West Philippine Sea. Two Chinese Navy vessels, identified as the Jiangdao-class corvette 624 and the Jingkai-class Frigate 574, were observed just 4 nautical miles away from a significant maritime cooperative activity between the Philippine Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

Despite their close proximity, the Chinese vessels didn’t interfere with the operation, which marked the first bilateral maritime cooperative activity (MCA) between the Philippines and Japan. The event was a notable success, signaling a strengthening of ties and collaboration in regional maritime security.

It’s a win for both countries, demonstrating their commitment to working together for safer and more secure seas. The presence of the Chinese vessels might have raised some eyebrows, but it appears they kept their distance, allowing the bilateral exercise to proceed smoothly.