MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines accused China on Tuesday of intimidating its fishermen at a disputed South China Sea shoal, and normalizing an “illegal presence,” after Beijing sent its largest coast guard vessel into Manila’s maritime zone.

Philippines National Security Council spokesperson said Manila was surprised by China’s ‘increasing aggression’.

The Philippines said a huge Chinese coast guard ship widely known as the “Monster” has returned to its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, prompting its own coast guard vessel to approach and issue a radio challenge.

The National Maritime Council is urging the Chinese government to withdraw its'monster ship' from the Philippine's exclusive economic zone.