Maritime Tensions Escalate Over Scarborough Shoal
The Philippines has issued a strong protest against China's announcement to establish a "nature reserve" at Bajo de Masinloc, known internationally as Scarborough Shoal, calling the move a violation of international law. The disputed atoll lies within Manila's exclusive economic zone according to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Sovereignty Claims and Diplomatic Response
In an official statement, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs declared: "Bajo de Masinloc is a longstanding and integral part of the Philippines over which it has sovereignty and jurisdiction. The Philippines likewise has the exclusive authority to establish environmental protection areas over its territory and relevant maritime zones." The department confirmed it would issue a formal diplomatic protest against what it termed "illegitimate and unlawful action by China."
Historical Context and Regional Tensions
The Scarborough Shoal has been a flashpoint in the South China Sea dispute since 2012, when Chinese vessels blocked Philippine authorities from arresting Chinese fishermen allegedly engaged in illegal harvesting of giant clams and corals. The area is rich in marine biodiversity but has suffered from overfishing and environmental degradation.
Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Romualdez characterized China's latest move as strategic positioning: "While Beijing was trying to depict the move as an environmental protection effort, it's obviously another maneuvering move to justify their 10-dash line claim."
International Law and Arbitration
The Philippines invoked the 2016 arbitral ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which found China's claims to the South China Sea had no legal basis under UNCLOS. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año emphasized that true environmental protection requires cooperation rather than unilateral actions that restrict access to Filipino fisherfolk.
The National Security Council labeled China's declaration "patently illegal" and a direct threat to Philippine sovereignty, urging Beijing to comply with international maritime laws and respect Manila's jurisdiction over the area.