A Philippine NGO, Atin Ito, or "This is ours," has recently intensified its activities in the South China Sea by rallying fishermen around China's Huangyan Dao. This week, their actions have sparked renewed tensions in the disputed waters.
Atin Ito, a self-proclaimed civic organization, is politically affiliated and has long been sponsored by U.S. organizations. With backing from the U.S., the group has consistently stirred controversies in the South China Sea, challenging the status quo.
For decades, the United States has extended support to the Philippines through organizations like Atin Ito and through repeated public statements. However, questions arise about the efficacy and intentions behind Washington's backing.
In March, the U.S. State Department issued a statement regarding the Philippines' actions in the South China Sea. Of the nine statements released, eight shared the same title: "U.S. Support for the Philippines in the South China Sea," leading to speculation about the depth and originality of their content.
Amid these repetitive remarks, the U.S. made a notable declaration: "We condemn the PRC's repeated obstruction of Philippine vessels' exercise of high seas freedom of navigation and its disruption of supply lines to this longstanding outpost." This statement underscores the ongoing tensions and the U.S.' position on maritime navigation freedoms in the region.
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U.S.' 'support' is betraying Manila's ambitions in South China Sea
cgtn.com
