Satellite images obtained by Reuters have shown a significant presence of Chinese civilian vessels near Thitu Island, a key Philippine outpost in the South China Sea.

Taken by Maxar Technologies earlier this week, the images show approximately 60 vessels, some as close as 2 nautical miles from the island.

Despite this, Vice Admiral Alfonso Torres, the chief of the Philippines' Western Command, has stated that these gatherings of 'maritime militia' ships do not currently warrant concern.

The Philippines, alongside the Pentagon and international diplomats, claim these vessels collaborate with the Chinese coast guard and navy to assert China's territorial claims.

Thitu Island, known to Filipinos as Pag-Asa, is strategically significant in the region contested by China and the Philippines.

The area remains a focal point of tension, particularly with past incidents involving Chinese and Philippine ships.

Currently, the enhanced presence of Chinese vessels is being monitored closely by regional diplomats and analysts as it coincides with political unrest in the Philippines, with Vice President Sara Duterte accusing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of attempting to remove her from office.

There is also speculation that China's actions aim to delay construction developments on the island, notably a new aircraft hangar set to be completed soon.