Beijing has repeatedly asserted its jurisdiction over Scarborough Shoal, which lies within Manila’s exclusive economic zone.

Observers interpret the presence of the 165-metre vessel near Scarborough Shoal as a warning to Manila about its military ties with the US.

The Philippines has accused a giant Chinese coast guard vessel dubbed the “Monster” of maintaining an “illegal presence” in its exclusive economic zone as Beijing ramps up activities in the disputed South China Sea.

China’s “monster ship” was spotted “further east from Scarborough Shoal, according to West Philippine Sea monitor Ray Powell.