QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has laid floating buoys in the West Philippine Sea to mark Philippine territory.

To date, the PCG has already laid 10 buoys and plans to add six more this year.

"Not only would it serve as navigational safety for both ships but it also serves as a sovereign markers. If we see that we have the Philippine flag placed there and we strengthen our presence," according to PCG Vice Admiral Joseph Coyme.

One of the areas marked by the buoy is the Julian Felipe Reef, which is one of the territories claimed by the country. This is despite the presence of several Chinese vessels spotted near the reef.

After the laying of the buoys, none of them have been removed. If this happens, the Philippines is ready to file a 'maritime protest' immediately.

"Definitely, we are sure we will be there because the buoy that we have laid down bears the flag of the Philippines," Coyme insisted.

Despite this, Coyme clarified that the situation in the WPS is not yet on heightened alert although there are still Chinese militia vessels spotted in the ocean.

Despite their presence now in the WPS, they are also not taking action to increase the tension between China and the Philippines because their actions remain diplomatic. (PIA-NCR)