Protesters in Manila call for China to withdraw its ships from a disputed area in the South China Sea.

The continuing stand-off between a Philippine coast guard ship and two Chinese surveillance boats is well into its second week.

Chinese state media reported on Thursday that Beijing sent a third boat to the area to safeguard Chinese fishing vessels.

Activists say the case should be judged by an international court.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) AKBAYAN PARTY SPOKESPERSON EMMAN HIZON SAYING:

"We're calling on the Chinese government to immediately and unconditionally remove all of its naval vessels in the area, respect Philippine sovereignty and marine jurisdiction over the area."

China says it prefers to settle disputes bilaterally, without international involvement.

Megan Detrie, Reuters