The Chinese ships have entered waters recognized by the United Nations as the Philippine territory. The defense secretary Delfin N Lorenzana has reported the news and described it as "very concerning".

According to Business World Online, the ships were seen last year near Benham Rise. This is 250 kilometers off the east coast of the main islands of Luzon, as well as Reed Bank in the South China Sea, which is claimed by both Manila and Beijing.

Lorenzana has described China's latest move as "very concerning". He also said he had ordered the Navy to accost and drive away the service ship from Benham Rise if it is seen again.

Yahoo News has reported that Lorenzana statement comes as President Rodrigo Duterte seeks warmer relations with Beijing. The ties soured under the previous administration because of conflicting claims in the South China Sea.

Benham Rise is an underwater land mass believed to be potentially rich in mineral and natural gas deposits. The United Nation Commissions on the limits of the continental shelf approved the Philippines undisputed territorial claim to Ben ham rise. China, along with Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam has conflicting claims over the South China Sea.

The local news report has stated that Mr. Duterte's predecessor, Benigno S.C Aquino 111, had pressed the Philippines claims leading to tensions with China. But the new president Mr.Duterte has focussed on boosting relations with Beijing, downplaying the territorial conflict while seeking financial and military aid.

China has long-standing demand over the South China Sea. China claims almost all of the vital sea-lane, including the Reed Bank which is about 148 kilometers of Palawan and which Manila considers as its territory.

Meanwhile, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia will launch joint patrols in piracy-plagued waters. After a wave of attacks that have seen Islamic militants kidnapping and murdering foreigners.

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