The Philippines says it's withdrawn one of its key patrol vessels from waters around the disputed Sabina Shoal, where tensions have risen with China.

The BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV 9701) is responding to the illegal presence of the China Coast Guard Vessel (CCGV) 3304, which was detected about 115 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales. (Photo by ...

The withdrawal of the PCG's flagship has prompted some to claim that Beijing has forced Manila to back down at Sabina Shoal.