MANILA, Philippines – Four Chinese surveillance ships have returned to Ayungin Shoal after several months of absence.

A security official who asked not be named said two of the Chinese ships have the 306 and 363 markings on their bows, while the two others look like frigates.

“They’ve been spotted near Ayungin since last week,” the security official said.

Another source said the Chinese Navy is again maintaining an active presence in the Spratlys.

“They were gone, but they have returned,” the source said.

Filipinos continue to fish in the area of Ayungin despite the presence of the Chinese ships.

Armed Forces chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista has vowed to defend Filipino fishermen against any “terror or intimidation” in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

Read more: http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/02/22/1293164/4-chinese-ships-back-ayungin