Chinese militia mothership and 22 sampans return to Kota Island; Filipino troops refuse order to leave

On Oct 9, Chinese Maritime Militia Vessel 9622 deployed 22 sampans near Kota Island (Kalayaan, Palawan), one coming within 250 m of the shore, per the NTF-WPS. The mothership reportedly encircled Philippine boats, claimed the area as Chinese territory and ordered the Filipino team to leave; they refused, and the PCG, Marines and Navy responded. All Chinese vessels eventually left the island's territorial sea. It was the vessel's second deployment since Sept 28.