tts.alexius
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The number of Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) has slightly decreased following recent bilateral talks between Manila and Beijing aimed at de-escalating tensions. Philippine Navy spokesperson Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad reported a reduction in the number of vessels over the past month, though the overall numbers still show only a marginal decrease. Despite this, he noted that there has been no other significant action from China to reduce tensions. The Philippines maintains its non-escalatory stance and continues its activities in the region, governed by international law. The July 2 Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) meeting between the two countries addressed the need to restore trust and promote constructive dialogue after a violent incident in June. As of July 9-15, 104 Chinese vessels were reported in the WPS, including maritime militia, Coast Guard ships, and People's Liberation Army Navy ships. Tensions persist in the South China Sea, a crucial maritime route, with overlapping claims from several countries, despite an international tribunal ruling in 2016 that invalidated China's extensive claims. 
