Notes on Philippine-China Tensions in the West Philippine Sea

Overview

• Beijing demands Manila to remove its Coast Guard flagship from a disputed shoal in the West Philippine Sea.
• The demand was made during a diplomatic meeting amidst threats from Chinese military officials.
• Tensions have escalated due to maritime confrontations between the Philippines and China.

Key Players

• Philippines: Represented by Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Teresa Lazaro.
• China: Represented by Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong.

Recent Developments

• Diplomatic Meeting: Held in Beijing to discuss bilateral relations and tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
• Chinese Demand: Chen Xiaodong urged the Philippines to withdraw the BRP Teresa Magbanwa from Escoda Shoal.
• Philippine Stance: Lazaro reaffirmed that Escoda Shoal is within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Background of Tensions

• Deployment of Vessels: The Philippine Coast Guard's biggest vessel was deployed to Escoda Shoal in April for maritime patrol.
• Escalation of Incidents:
  • August: Chinese vessels swarmed and blocked a Philippine resupply mission.
  • Ramming incident involving the China Coast Guard and BRP Teresa Magbanwa.
• Diplomatic Protests: The Philippines lodged protests and received support from multiple countries.

International Relations

• U.S. Involvement:
  • U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reaffirms U.S. commitment to the Philippines after recent provocations by China.
  • Emphasis on the right to operate under international law.
• China's Response: Warned against U.S. interference and stated readiness to defend its territory.

Philippine National Security Council's Position

• Asserts Philippine sovereignty and right to defend its interests.
• Claims Chinese accusations are propaganda aimed at undermining the Philippines' position.
• No plans to remove BRP Teresa Magbanwa despite damage from ramming incident.

Monitoring Activities

• Over 200 Chinese vessels reported within the Philippine EEZ from Sept 3-9, with around 70 surrounding the BRP Teresa Magbanwa.
• Ongoing monitoring of potential reclamation activities and commitment to maritime patrols in the area.

Upcoming Events

• President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will not attend the UN General Assembly.
• Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo to express the Philippines' position on key issues.
• Approximately 20 countries expected to hold a summit at the UN to address the South China Sea situation.