The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has taken decisive action by deploying two vessels in response to a concerning rise in the number of Chinese maritime militia vessels within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea.
The PCG noted an increase from 111 to over 135 Chinese boats believed to be manned by militia personnel, scattered within the Whitsun Reef, referred to as the Julian Felipe Reef by Manila.
In a statement, the PCG affirmed its unwavering commitment to safeguarding maritime security, safety, and the marine environment while protecting the Philippines’ territorial integrity, sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea – the term used by Manila for waters in the South China Sea within its 200-nautical mile EEZ. The Chinese Embassy in Manila has not provided an immediate comment.
Despite an international tribunal invalidating China’s claim to 90% of the South China Sea in 2016, with China not recognizing the ruling, tensions persist. China’s construction of islands in disputed waters, including airstrips, has further escalated the situation. Multiple nations, including Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Brunei, lay claim to parts of the sea.
The PCG’s recent report follows joint air and sea patrols by the Philippines with the United States, followed by a similar undertaking with Australia in the South China Sea.
This has heightened tensions with Beijing, as the Philippines intensifies efforts to counter what it describes as China’s “aggressive activities” in the region, which has become a naval flashpoint for Chinese and U.S. tension.
China has accused the Philippines of involving “foreign forces” in South China Sea patrols, while Manila asserts its maritime activities are well within its rights.
