Philippines says more than 135 Chinese boats 'swarming' reef off its coast

The Philippines is ramping up efforts to counter what it describes as China's “aggressive activities” in the South China Sea. - PHOTO: REUTERS

MANILA (AFP): The Philippines said Sunday more than 135 Chinese vessels were "swarming" a reef off its coast, describing the boats' growing presence as "alarming".

The Chinese boats were "dispersed and scattered" within the boomerang-shaped Whitsun Reef, which the Philippines calls Julian Felipe Reef, around 320 kilometres (200 miles) west of Palawan Island, the coast guard said.