Chinese ships spotted in West PH sea areas
Albeit the fact that there's an increase in the number of Chinese ships in disputed areas in the West Philippine Sea, the Philippines, meanwhile, also increased its maritime patrols despite its limited capacity to react against the aggressive Chinese actions, most specifically during resupply missions in Ayungin Shoal.
The Philippines emphasized the need to become more responsible and implement conduct over the disputed maritime areas.
On May 2 this year, some Chinese boats attempted to obstruct Philippine resupply ships, which led to collisions and damaged BRP Cabra and the passenger ship Unaizah.
Jonathan Malaya, Assistant Director General of the National Security Council, said the deployment of several Chinese maritime militia vessels not only close to Ayungin but also in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) and Sabina (Escoda) Shoal has raised concerns. Some reports showed that environmental degradation, especially in marine resources is prominent in the area.
As a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Malaya urged China to act responsibly and respect international laws. However, a large portion of the South China Sea is claimed by China, including the economic zone of the Philippines. The international court in 2016, meanwhile, rejected China’s claims.
Malaya charged China with running a "Malign information operation," which involves disseminating disinformation. He highlighted that this is a crucial struggle for the Philippines' resources, particularly those that assist its fisherfolk, and China’s actions are not just a matter of “posturing.”
Ray Powell, Maritime Security specialist said maritime disputes between the Philippines and China will continue, as China’s aggressive behavior is becoming more prominent. China’s code of conduct in the South China Sea seems improbable given the conflicting interests of China and other maritime states.
While there are peace negotiations, Powell said it is difficult to agree because China wants to bolster its claims while other countries want to prevent such bolstering.
Experts believe that there is no clear end in sight yet for this dynamic geopolitical issue and is projected to remain.
