The Philippines has accused China of intimidation after Beijing deployed its largest coast guard vessel to Scarborough Shoal, escalating tensions in the disputed South China Sea. Manila's National Security Council (NSC) has called the vessel’s presence illegal and provocative, urging China to withdraw immediately.
This latest development follows a pattern of increasing maritime confrontations between the two nations, both of whom have overlapping territorial claims in the region. The Philippines has repeatedly lodged protests over Chinese incursions into its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), with the most recent incident involving a 165-meter-long vessel spotted near Zambales.
Jonathan Malaya, spokesperson for the NSC, condemned China's actions, accusing Beijing of attempting to intimidate Filipino fishermen. In response, China has defended its continued presence in the area, citing historical claims over Scarborough Shoal, which it seized from the Philippines in 2012.
The dispute underscores the broader geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea, where China’s assertive maritime policies have led to clashes with several neighboring countries. Manila has vowed to continue defending its sovereign rights, while regional observers warn of further escalation if diplomatic solutions remain elusive.
