31-10-2023 (BEIJING) The Chinese military issued a rare warning to the Philippines on Monday (Oct 30) after a Philippine military ship allegedly entered waters near Scarborough Shoal without authorization. China’s military urged the Philippines to immediately cease its provocative actions in the disputed waters of the South China Sea.
While China has primarily directed its warnings towards US warships in the region, this statement signifies a notable shift in focus towards the Philippines. Tensions between China and the Philippines have been mounting, with recent accusations traded between the two countries regarding a collision involving a Chinese coastguard vessel and a Philippine boat.
Senior Colonel Tian Junli, a spokesperson for the People’s Liberation Army Southern Theater Command, stated, “We are urging the Philippine side to immediately stop its infringement and provocations, and earnestly avoid further escalation.”
Scarborough Shoal, located in the South China Sea, is claimed by China, the Philippines, and Taiwan. Colonel Tian emphasized that the actions taken by the Philippine ship have flagrantly violated China’s sovereignty, international law, and the fundamental norms governing international relations. He further warned that these actions could potentially lead to misunderstandings and miscalculations.
China asserts its sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea, including parts of the exclusive economic zones of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. This expansive claim has resulted in escalating maritime friction and territorial disputes in the region.
