In a move that has heightened tensions, the Philippines recently removed buoys that China had placed in the South China Sea. Both nations have strong claims over the contested waters around the Scarborough Shoal.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines stated that the region is within their territory and that barriers shouldn’t be placed there. However, he also emphasized that the Philippines seeks a resolution and is not pursuing conflict.
The Scarborough Shoal’s sovereignty has been a contentious issue, with both the Philippines and China asserting rights over it. Following a naval standoff in 2012, the Chinese coast guard has been a regular fixture in the region, leading to several confrontations with Filipino fishermen.
China claims the installation of the buoy line was in response to an unauthorized entry by a Philippine vessel into the shoal. While they assert to have removed the line on Saturday, Manila’s account suggests that their Coast Guard undertook the task earlier in the week. Video footage indeed shows the Coast Guard personnel cutting the buoy line underwater.
Following the removal, President Marcos noted a boost to the local fishing industry, with Filipino fishermen reporting a significant single-day catch. The Philippines Coast Guard, in a press briefing, presented an anchor they believe was used by Chinese vessels to establish the buoy line and also indicated the continued presence of two Chinese vessels in the vicinity.
In his statement, Mr. Marcos said, “While we strive for peaceful resolutions, it remains imperative for us to protect our territory and the rights of our fishermen.”
On the international front, the U.S., which has been strengthening its ties with the Philippines this year, commented on the situation. Lindsey Ford, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia, acknowledged the ongoing dispute and confirmed the U.S.’s commitment to peace and security in the region.