MANILA, Philippines — Washington has been aware of Beijing's activities in the disputed South China Sea as the US Coast Guard has been keeping tabs on them. Fagan mentioned the North Pacific Coast Guard Forum, a multilateral forum where coast guards from other countrues discuss areas of shared interest. The US Coast Guard will continue its operations in the South China Sea when USCGC Stratton will takes the place of USCGC Bertholf in a few days. The US Coast Guard commander stressed that its operations in the South China Sea are consistent with international standards and rules. The Chinese vessels, believed to be militia disguised as fishing boats, have been deployed in the area as early as January.

Source: Philippine Star June 11, 2019 09:33 UTC