On Tuesday, the Philippines asserted its determination not to yield to the attempts of China to impede its fishermen’s access to a highly contested shoal in the South China Sea. Meanwhile, Beijing issued a warning to the Southeast Asian nation, urging them not to “provoke and cause trouble.”
These remarks followed Manila’s actions on the previous day when they dismantled a 300-meter floating barrier installed by Beijing at the shoal, which stands as one of the most fiercely disputed maritime features in Asia. This operation was conducted by coastguard personnel who posed as fishermen aboard a small boat.
This move, characterized by the Philippines as a “special operation,” could further strain relations between the two nations, which have been deteriorating over the course of this year.
Commodore Jay Tarriela
Philippine coastguard spokesperson, Commodore Jay Tarriela, expressed concerns that China might reintroduce the floating barrier and engage in provocative actions once more. He noted that four Chinese vessels were present in the area when a Philippine ship approached, but their behavior was not overly aggressive. It was evident that media personnel were aboard the Philippine ship. He further stated that China’s coastguard had removed remnants of the severed ball-buoy barrier and had responded measuredly to the presence of its vessel, which had approached the strategic atoll as closely as it had since China seized it in 2012.
Tarriela emphasized the Philippines’ unwavering stance: “We have demonstrated to the world that the Filipino people will not back down. We will consistently take whatever measures are necessary to maintain our presence.”
The Scarborough Shoal, situated approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) off the Philippines and within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), has been at the center of sovereignty disputes spanning several decades. China, referring to the rocky outcrop as Huangyan Island, has accused the Philippines of “intruding” into what China claims as its unquestionable territorial waters. On Tuesday, China issued a stern warning to Manila, urging them to refrain from provocative actions.
In essence, the Philippines remains resolute in its determination to safeguard its interests in the South China Sea, while China reiterates its claim to sovereignty over the area and cautions against any actions it deems provocative.
