MANILA: The Philippine Coast Guard has reported over 100 Chinese vessels in the Philippine part of the South China Sea, consisting of “Chinese maritime militia” and two military ships from the Chinese Coast Guard.
The vessels were first spotted in the Spratly Islands area in the third week of April and have remained in the area.
The Philippine Coast Guard has accused the Chinese vessels of “dangerous maneuvers” and “aggressive tactics” after they intercepted Philippine patrol boats on duty in Second Thomas Shoal, also known as Ayungin Shoal.
According to PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela, the Chinese Coast Guard vessels remain in Ayungin Shoal and there are still more than 100 Chinese maritime militia in Julian Felipe (Whitsun Reef).
The vessels have also been challenging the Philippine Coast Guard persistently with radio messages, claiming that the Philippines is intruding into their waters.
The South China Sea is a disputed territory, with China claiming sovereignty over almost the entirety of the area based on its “nine-dash line”.
This claim has been dismissed by an international tribunal in The Hague in 2016, but China has not recognized the ruling and has continued to develop its military presence by building artificial island bases in the contested waters.
Increasing Chinese presence in South China Sea
China’s increasing presence in the South China Sea has sparked concerns from other countries, including France and Australia.
The French embassy in Manila has stated that it is “opposed to any action that increases tensions and jeopardizes regional stability,” while Australia has called on China to respect the United Nations Convention on the Sea Law in its activity.
The latest developments come as Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is visiting Washington, Manila’s long-time military ally.
During his meeting with Marcos on Monday, US President Joe Biden reiterated America’s commitment to the defense of the Philippines, including the South China Sea.
