The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said it repelled a China Coast Guard (CCG) ship away from a disputed reef in the South China Sea.

Footage shows the crew of the BRP Cape San Agustin issuing a radio challenge to the Chinese vessel seen sailing off Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal, on December 6.

In a statement, PCG spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said: 'Despite rough sea conditions with waves of 2–3 meters, BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408) skillfully manoeuvred and successfully pushed the distance of the Chinese Coast Guard vessel CCG-3303 further to approximately 135 nautical miles off the Zambales coastline. Meanwhile, CCG-3305 and CCG-3502 continue to be monitored on the vessel's radar as they loiter and conduct unlawful patrols in the immediate vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc.'

The PCG said it has been warding off Chinese ships in the contested area in recent weeks.

On November 30, the PCG's BRP Cabra also warned several CCG vessels approaching the coast of Zambales province.

Beijing had recently approved the creation of a 'nature reserve' in Bajo de Masinloc - a move slammed by the Philippine officials who said it was a 'pretext towards eventual occupation'.

Expansionist China currently lays claim to almost the entire region, which is one of the world's busiest sea lanes. But a United Nations-backed tribunal in 2016 deemed its claims groundless.

The Communist rogue state - accused of genocide for its crimes against the Uyghur population - has been steadily increasing its influence in recent years through investment in developing countries.