Philippines Condemns China’s Nature Reserve Plan at Scarborough Shoal

The Philippines has formally protested against China’s plans to establish a nature reserve at the contentious Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. On March 14, 2024, China’s State Council announced the approval of this project, prompting Manila to demand an immediate withdrawal from Beijing.

The Scarborough Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, is a significant point of contention among several nations, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs stated that a diplomatic protest was underway, calling China’s actions “illegitimate and unlawful,” which infringes on the rights and interests of the Philippines under international law.

In a statement, the Foreign Affairs Department urged China to recognize Philippine sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal. The department insisted that China refrain from enforcing its claims and withdraw its recent announcement.

China’s State Council described the establishment of the Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve as a vital step to protect the natural ecosystem’s diversity and stability. Nonetheless, Philippine Ambassador to the United States, Jose Romualdez, criticized the move, suggesting that it serves as a facade for China’s expansive territorial claims in the region.

The Scarborough Shoal has seen numerous confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels, as both sides assert their claims to the area. A recent incident highlighted the tensions when a Chinese navy ship collided with a Chinese coast guard vessel while attempting to block a Philippine coast guard boat near the shoal.

The United States, while not having any territorial claims in the South China Sea, has reaffirmed its commitment to defend the Philippines, a long-standing treaty ally. The U.S. government has repeatedly warned that it is obligated to respond if Filipino forces, ships, or aircraft face armed attacks in the disputed waters.

The ongoing dispute over the Scarborough Shoal reflects the broader geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea, where territorial claims often lead to clashes and diplomatic protests. As the Philippines continues to assert its rights, the international community watches closely, particularly for any potential escalation in the region.