Philippines to Continue to Deploy Vessels in Contested South China Sea Shoal

Tensions Rise as China Steps Up Presence in Disputed Waters

The Philippines will continue to deploy vessels near a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, despite protests from China. The move comes as tensions rise between the two countries over the strategic waterway.

Philippine Commitment to Sending Vessels

The Philippine Navy has been sending ships to the shoal, known as Second Thomas Shoal, since 2019. The shoal is located within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ), but China claims sovereignty over much of the area.

The Philippines maintains that the shoal is part of its territory and has a right to send vessels there. "We will continue to patrol and conduct naval drills in the area," said Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte last month.

China's Presence in the Disputed Sea Region

China has been stepping up its military presence in the South China Sea, which is a vital trade route. China has built artificial islands and deployed warships to the area.

In April, China's military conducted live-fire exercises near Second Thomas Shoal. The move was seen as a warning to the Philippines to back down from its claims to the shoal.

Rising Tensions and Prospects of Conflict

The situation in the South China Sea is becoming increasingly tense. The United States has warned China not to escalate tensions, and has sent warships to the area to support its allies.

There are concerns that the situation could lead to conflict between China and the Philippines, or even between China and the United States. The South China Sea is a critical waterway for global trade, and any conflict would have serious economic consequences.