In the ongoing territorial dispute over the South China Sea, the Philippines has voiced its commitment to defending its territory and protecting the rights of its fishermen. The tension revolves around the strategically significant Scarborough Shoal, which has been controlled by China for over a decade. This dispute has recently escalated as the Philippine coastguard removed a floating barrier installed by China, which had blocked access to the contentious area.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., addressing the situation for the first time, emphasized the Philippines’ determination to uphold its rights to fish in its exclusive economic zone. He stated, “What we will do is to continue defending the Philippines, the maritime territory of the Philippines, the rights of our fishermen to catch fish in areas where they are doing it for hundreds of years already.”
This latest confrontation began when the Philippine coastguard took action against the Chinese-installed barrier, which disrupted the livelihoods of Filipino fishermen. The incident has strained relations between the Philippines and China, two countries that have been grappling with territorial disputes in the South China Sea for years.
China maintains that the Scarborough Shoal falls under its territorial jurisdiction, a claim disputed not only by the Philippines but also by neighboring countries in the region. The United States, a close ally of the Philippines, has weighed in on the matter, expressing support for Manila and highlighting its treaty obligations to defend the nation as a former colony.
The United States’ stance has added to the complexity of the situation. The U.S. Department of Defense described the Philippine coastguard’s actions as a “bold step” and emphasized its commitment to assist the Philippines in safeguarding its interests in the region. Additionally, President Marcos Jr.’s efforts to deepen defense ties with the United States, including offering expanded access to Philippine troops for training and humanitarian purposes, have raised concerns in China.
While tensions continue to rise, President Marcos Jr. expressed his puzzlement over the recent developments. He emphasized that the Philippines seeks to protect its territory and the rights of its fishermen, who have relied on these waters for generations. The situation remains fluid, and the international community watches closely as this long-standing territorial dispute in the South China Sea evolves.
