26-12-2023 (MANILA) In the latest exchange of accusations, the Philippines denies provoking conflict in the South China Sea, responding to China’s claims that Manila was encroaching on its territory. The tension between the two nations has escalated in recent months, with maritime incidents sparking diplomatic disputes.
Military spokesperson Medel Aguilar emphasized that the Philippines is not provoking conflict, asserting that the nation adheres to international law and implements domestic regulations within its territorial waters and exclusive economic zone, where sovereign rights are recognized.
The dispute intensified as the People’s Daily, the Chinese Communist Party’s mouthpiece, accused the Philippines of relying on US support to provoke China continually. The Chinese publication characterized this behavior as “extremely dangerous” and detrimental to regional peace and stability.
Aguilar countered the accusations, stating that Philippine activities prioritize the safety of vessels and seafarers. He accused China of engaging in dangerous manoeuvres, leading to collisions at sea, and claimed that China is the one committing violations.
On Tuesday, the Chinese embassy in Manila accused the Philippines of causing tension by sending construction supplies to a grounded navy vessel in the Second Thomas Shoal. China’s foreign ministry reiterated that recent events were entirely due to the Philippines changing its position and deliberately provoking conflicts.
The Philippines routinely conducts resupply missions for soldiers stationed on an ageing warship deliberately run aground in 1999 to assert Manila’s maritime claims. China’s expansive territorial claim, represented by the nine-dash line, overlaps with the exclusive economic zones of Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. The 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling invalidated China’s claim, a decision not recognized by Beijing.
