Philippines Rejects China’s Claim Of Sovereignty Over Entire South China Sea

The Philippines on Monday rejected China’s claim over the entire South China Sea. It also denied a statement by China’s embassy that a Filipino diplomat had once said Scarborough Shoal was not part of Philippine territory.

The latest exchange shows that tensions remain high in one of the world’s most important maritime regions.

Foreign Affairs spokesperson Rogelio Villanueva said the Philippines has full and long-standing sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal and the islands it holds in the Spratly group.

The shoal is about 200 km (124 miles) from the Philippines and lies within its exclusive economic zone. It is close to major shipping routes and is important for fishing and as a safe shelter for ships during storms.

Both China and the Philippines claim the shoal. However, China has maintained effective control by keeping its coast guard vessels in the area. Villanueva said sovereignty is not just about making claims, but about actually exercising control.

The Philippines has accused China of aggressive actions in its exclusive economic zone. These include using water cannons against Philippine vessels and blocking resupply missions to outposts held by Manila.

The Philippines has described these as dangerous maneuvers, while China has said its coast guard is acting to defend its territory in a professional manner.

The Philippines also continues to rely on a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which found that China’s broad claims in the South China Sea had no legal basis under international law. China has rejected that ruling and does not recognise it.

The South China Sea remains a key route for global trade, with more than $3 trillion worth of goods passing through it every year.

Any rise in tensions in areas like Scarborough Shoal can affect shipping safety, fishing activities, and regional stability, with wider effects on global supply chains.

The latest statement from the Philippines came after the Chinese embassy in Manila said a former Philippine ambassador had told a German radio station that Scarborough Shoal was not part of the country.

The Philippine government rejected this claim and said disputes should be handled through international legal processes, not unilateral statements.

Reference: Reuters