Escalating Tensions: Chinese Militia Ships' Presence in West Philippine Sea

janimonow

Dec 5

The situation at Julian Felipe (Whitsun) Reef in the West Philippine Sea escalated as at least 135 Chinese militia ships were observed "swarming" the area during a patrol by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). This incident is part of a series of actions that have raised concerns about China's activities in the region. Previously, in mid-November, patrols by the PCG and the Armed Forces of the Philippines had detected the presence of at least 111 Chinese ships at the reef, which is well within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

This development led National Security Adviser Gen. Eduardo Año, who also chairs the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS), to order additional maritime patrols in response to this "alarming development." The PCG's BRP Sindangan and BRP Cabra attempted to communicate with the Chinese ships but received no response. The Chinese militia vessels have been reported to aid the China Coast Guard (CCG) in harassing Philippine boats engaged in resupply missions to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal.

In previous instances, Chinese vessels have used water cannons against Philippine boats on resupply missions, including an attempt to alter the course of a military-commissioned resupply vessel, which was unsuccessful. The CCG has also previously targeted PCG vessels escorting supply boats to BRP Sierra Madre, located on Ayungin Shoal. Despite these provocations, the NTF-WPS has consistently condemned China's "unprovoked acts" as "consistent" and "systematic," questioning the sincerity of China's calls for peaceful dialogue.

This situation highlights ongoing tensions and disputes in the West Philippine Sea, underscoring the complexities of maritime sovereignty and international relations in the region.