The Philippines has formally rejected China’s claim of sovereignty over the entire South China Sea, countering a statement from the Chinese embassy suggesting a former Filipino diplomat had conceded that Scarborough Shoal was not Philippine territory.
“China must be reminded that maritime and territorial claims are subject to established international legal procedures and dispute settlement mechanisms, not through unilateral proclamations or social media posts,” said Rogelio Villanueva, spokesperson for the Philippine foreign ministry, during a briefing in Manila.
Sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal
Villanueva emphasized that the Philippines holds “indivisible, incontrovertible and longstanding sovereignty” over Scarborough Shoal and the islands Manila controls in the Spratly archipelago. The remarks come amid an ongoing diplomatic exchange following a weekend post from the Chinese embassy that referenced comments from a former Philippine ambassador to a German radio station.
Scarborough Shoal, located about 200 km (124 miles) off the Philippine coast and within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), is highly strategic. It sits near major shipping lanes, boasts rich fishing grounds, and contains a turquoise lagoon that provides safe anchorage for vessels during storms.
“Sovereignty is not merely claimed, it is exercised,” Villanueva said, underlining Manila’s commitment to actively maintain control over its territories.
Maritime Tensions and Legal Backdrop
The Philippines and China have faced repeated maritime confrontations in recent years. Manila has accused Beijing of aggressive actions inside its EEZ, including interference with resupply missions and the use of water cannons, which it describes as “dangerous maneuvers.” China maintains that its coast guard has acted professionally to defend territory it claims.
In 2016, the Philippines won a landmark case at the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which ruled that China’s broad claim of sovereignty in the South China Sea had no legal basis. Beijing has continuously rejected the ruling.
