Philippines and China Trade Accusations Over South China Sea Collisions

Philippines and China Trade Accusations Over South China Sea Collisions

Philippine-China Spat in South China Sea: Philippines and China Trade Accusations Over South China Sea Collisions

A growing dispute has emerged between the Philippines and China following two collisions involving vessels from both nations in the contested South China Sea. The incidents occurred near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands. Both countries have lodged diplomatic protests and released videos to support their claims.

Diplomatic Measures and Protests

The Philippine Foreign Ministry summoned China’s ambassador to register its protest, marking the latest step in the diplomatic standoff. While the ambassador was unavailable, his deputy chief of mission attended the meeting. This incident follows a similar summoning of the ambassador in August when the China Coast Guard used water cannons on Philippine vessels near Second Thomas Shoal.

Territorial Claims and Protests

The Philippines asserts sovereignty over Ayungin Shoal, which falls within its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. The country insists it has sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the area. China, on the other hand, referred to the shoal as Ren’ai Reef and expressed strong opposition to the presence of Philippine vessels there.

Clashing Claims and Accusations

The first collision involved a China Coast Guard vessel, which the Philippines accused of reckless maneuvers leading to the collision with a smaller wooden supply boat. China, in contrast, claimed the collision occurred after the Philippine resupply boat ignored warnings and maneuvered unprofessionally.

The second collision occurred between a Philippine coast guard vessel accompanying the resupply mission and a Chinese Maritime Militia vessel. The Philippines characterized it as a “bump,” while China accused the Philippine boat of deliberately reversing into a Chinese fishing vessel.

South China Sea Dispute and Arbitral Ruling

China asserts expansive claims in the South China Sea, disregarding a 2016 international ruling that found its assertions to have no legal basis. The Philippines continues to supply its troops stationed on Second Thomas Shoal with provisions, emphasizing that the 2016 arbitral ruling is binding not only on the Philippines but also on China.

Challenges and Implications

As China becomes increasingly assertive in its claims in the South China Sea, there is a growing concern about potential maritime collisions and confrontations. The Philippines has established outposts on nine reefs and islands in the Spratlys, including Second Thomas Shoal.

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