Philippines Summons Chinese Envoy Over Provocative Incidents Near Reef
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Roshan Amiri
- . March 25, 2024
- . Update: March 25, 2024 7:19 pm
The Philippines has taken the step of summoning a Chinese envoy on Monday to address concerns regarding aggressive actions by the China Coast Guard and other Chinese vessels near a reef off the country’s coast in the South China Sea. This incident is part of a long-standing history of maritime territorial disputes between Beijing and Manila, which have witnessed repeated confrontations near disputed reefs in recent months.
Background of Maritime Territorial Disputes:
Beijing and Manila have a history of conflicting claims over territorial control in the South China Sea. These disputes have resulted in contentious encounters between their respective vessels near disputed reefs over time.
The most recent incident occurred on Saturday near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands. It took place during a routine Philippine mission to resupply Filipino troops stationed on the grounded navy ship, BRP Sierra Madre. The Philippines reported that the China Coast Guard obstructed their supply vessel and caused damage using water cannons, resulting in injuries to three soldiers.
Philippines’ Protest and China’s Defense:
The Philippines conveyed a strong protest against the aggressive actions of the China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia during the rotation and resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal). The Philippines emphasized that China has no right to be present in Ayungin Shoal and demanded the immediate withdrawal of Chinese vessels from the vicinity.
International Response and Deteriorating Relations:
China’s claims over almost the entire South China Sea have been contested by other countries, including the Philippines, and an international ruling has declared China’s assertion as having no legal basis. The United States, which has a mutual defense pact with the Philippines, denounced the attack and reaffirmed its commitment to defending its ally against armed aggression in the region. Relations between Manila and Beijing have cooled as the Philippine government seeks closer cooperation with the United States and regional neighbors, while standing up against Chinese aggression towards Philippine vessels.
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Implications and Continuing Operations:
The aggressive actions by China raise doubts about its commitment to lowering tensions and promoting peace and stability in the South China Sea. Despite the attack, Philippine officials managed to deliver supplies and personnel to the outpost on the BRP Sierra Madre, which is home to Filipino soldiers stationed on the shoal. The damaged supply boat and its escorts returned to port after completing their mission.
