Days after a Filipino diver cut off a 300-meter long string of buoys near Scarborough Shoal in the disputed South China Sea, Beijing is urging the Philippines not to engage in provocations. President Ferdinand Marcos Junior ordered the removal of the floating barrier as it was blocking Filipino fishing boats entering the disputed area.
The Philippines coast guard said the barrier posed a hazard to navigation and a violation of international law. The barrier, which was a long, ball-buoy about 200 km from the Philippines, was removed in a special operation.
However, the Chinese coast guard said they had removed the barrier on Saturday. The Chinese foreign ministry said they took necessary measures after a Philippines vessel trespassed into its waters last Friday.
China Defends Actions
Wang Wenbin, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, said Beijing is resolute in protecting and defending its sovereignty and maritime rights over China’s Huangyan Island in the South China Sea. He called on the Philippines to refrain from engaging in provocations. “China’s resolve in safeguarding its sovereignty and maritime rights and interests over Huangyan Island is unwavering. We call on the Philippines not to make provocations or stir up trouble.”
The Philippine government said three Chinese Coast Guard boats and a Chinese maritime militia service boat installed the barrier last Sunday after the arrival of a Philippines vessel in the area. The Philippines coast guard said the shoal is an integral part of the Philippines national territory. He added that the Chinese boats gave 15 radio challenges and accused the Philippine ship and fishermen of violating international and Chinese laws. The Chinese moved away when they realized that there were media personnel on board the Philippines vessel.
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US Commends Philippine Actions
Meanwhile, the US has applauded the Philippines’ actions. The US and Philippines evolved their alliance into a strategic relation a month ago. The two countries strengthened relations through the implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.
Lindsey Ford, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia, commended the Philippines’ action. “The department has been incredibly clear that when it comes to our treaty commitments to the Philippines, we believe an armed attack against Philippine Armed Forces, public vessels, aircraft, apply to the South China Sea.”
