The South China Sea is once again a hotspot for maritime tensions as the China Coast Guard (CCG) issued stern warnings to Philippine vessels for illegally entering waters under China's jurisdiction. This recent development marks another chapter in the ongoing dispute over territorial sovereignty in the region.
Safeguarding Sovereignty
The CCG stated that the actions of the Philippines infringe upon China's sovereignty, violating international law and the basic norms of international relations. The CCG urged the Philippines to immediately cease its activities in these disputed waters.
Over the past few months, there has been an uptick in Philippine incursions into the South China Sea. Notably, on April 30th, the CCG expelled a Philippine Coast Guard ship and an official vessel that had entered the waters near Huangyan Island.
Earlier, on March 23rd, the CCG obstructed a Philippine supply vessel and two Coast Guard ships attempting to deliver construction materials to a military ship illegally grounded at Ren'ai Jiao for repair and reinforcement.
The CCG emphasized its commitment to continuing law enforcement activities in accordance with Chinese law, aiming to resolutely safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.
Behind the Infringement
Atin Ito, an organization linked to the Akbayan Party—known for its anti-China stance in the Philippines—has been identified as a key player in these recent infringements. According to Ding Duo, deputy director at the Research Center for Ocean Law and Policy, Atin Ito has a history of conducting such activities in the South China Sea.
In December 2023, Atin Ito organized a convoy of around 40 vessels to supply Philippine military personnel at Ren'ai Jiao, further escalating tensions. The group's leader, Rafaela David, also serves as the chairman of the Akbayan Party, using various political issues to bolster its influence.
Duo highlighted that these operations were often coordinated with the Philippine Coast Guard and involved journalists, adding layers to the complex dynamics of the dispute.
Escalating Maritime Tensions
Since Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office in 2022, maritime tensions in the South China Sea have intensified. Ding compares the Marcos administration to a \"gambler\" seeking short-term political gains, suggesting that Manila's provocations in Chinese waters have not only heightened tensions but also jeopardized regional stability.
According to Ding, one of the motivations behind Manila's frequent actions is to divert public attention from domestic issues like high inflation, unemployment, and drug problems by creating an external threat.
The 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, signed by China and ASEAN members, aimed to resolve disputes through peaceful means. However, recent activities by the Philippines have strained political trust and hindered efforts to accelerate consultations and negotiations on a Code of Conduct.
\"Judging from the actions of the Philippines, it has not fundamentally recognized the importance of returning to the right track,\" Ding concluded, highlighting the challenges ahead for regional diplomacy.
Reference(s):
China warns Philippine vessels for illegally entering Chinese waters
cgtn.com
