Manila sternly reproaches Beijing's intimidating remarks
The Philippines is vocal in its condemnation of China's actions in the South China Sea, calling on Beijing to cease its provoking and risky behaviors. In a statement from their maritime task force, they accuse China of employing flares against a Philippine aircraft that was conducting patrols near the Subi Reef last Thursday. This incident follows the harassment of the same aircraft by a Chinese warplane just a few days prior.
The Philippines view these actions as detrimental to the region's peace and security, and as damaging to China's reputation on the global stage. The Chinese embassy in Manila has yet to respond to these accusations.
Tensions between the two nations continue to simmer, fueled by a dispute over territorial claims. The contested Second Thomas Shoal, which falls under the Spratly Islands, is at the heart of the issue. This area, situated on a major global shipping route, is also suspected to hold significant oil and gas reserves.
The aircraft in question, operated by the Philippine Fisheries Authority, was collaborating with the coast guard in a mission to apprehend poachers entering the Philippine exclusive economic zone. According to reports, a Chinese fighter jet let off several flares in close proximity, posing a threat to the aircraft's safety.
China asserts its sovereign rights over a large portion of the South China Sea. To back its territorial claims, China has deployed numerous naval vessels. However, this claim is rejected by nations like the Philippines, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Brunei. An international court ruling in 2016 found that China's claims lacked a legal basis.
China has constructed several artificial islands in the South China Sea. These islands are equipped with radar, runways, and surface-to-air missile systems. Subi Reef, located just 24 kilometers off the Philippine coast, is among these islands.
The Philippines often expresses concerns about China's activities in the international community, given these actions in the South China Sea. Despite China's construction of facilities on disputed reefs, such as Subi Reef, many countries reject its territorial claims in the region.
