The Philippines' foreign ministry has lodged a diplomatic protest against China over the presence of a floating structure in the disputed Scarborough Shoal. The structure, observed with an antenna, is considered an illegal presence within Philippine maritime zones.
The incident underscores ongoing tensions and territorial disputes in the South China Sea, highlighting the Philippines' commitment to defending its sovereignty and maritime rights against China's expansive claims.
The Philippines' foreign ministry has initiated diplomatic action against China concerning a floating structure detected in the disputed Scarborough Shoal within the South China Sea. The Philippine government's South China Sea task force confirmed the presence of the 6 by 6 meter structure, which appeared to be manned and equipped with an antenna.
This installation is considered an illegal presence within Philippine maritime zones, as recognized by international law. Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro had previously indicated receiving information about the structure on the shoal. While satellite images confirmed its presence at the lagoon's entrance, later imagery showed it had been removed.
Scarborough Shoal is a vital fishing ground located approximately 200 km from the Philippines' western coast, significantly closer than to China's nearest landmass. China has maintained a continuous presence of coastguard and maritime militia vessels in the area since 2012. A 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling largely favored the Philippines, stating China's blockade of the shoal violated international law and that the area served as a traditional fishing ground for multiple nations.