
The move highlights the ongoing tensions over the disputed waters. The Chinese coast guard said it “allowed” the Philippines to evacuate a sick individual from the South China Sea. On Tuesday, the Philippines swiftly criticized this declaration, seeing it as validation of China’s illicit actions within their exclusive economic zone (EEZ). It was announced on Tuesday.
The incident happened close to Second Thomas Shoal, a reef in the Spratly Islands claimed by China and the Philippines but that is submerged. China’s coast guard claims that its warships made the evacuation easier by working with the Philippine authorities. In their statement, the Chinese stressed that the evacuation was “allowed,” underscoring their authority and control over the area.
A Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs representative retorted, “This statement confirms their illegal deployment of vessels within our EEZ and highlights their government’s view that the preservation of human life and welfare requires approval.” The spokesman restated that, by international law, the Second Thomas Shoal is located within the Philippines’ EEZ.
According to the Philippine Coast Guard, Chinese warships engaged in “numerous obstructing and delaying maneuvers” during their attempt at a medical evacuation. They claimed that by complicating and prolonging the rescue effort, these actions jeopardized the ill person’s health. The Philippine authorities overcome these obstacles to evacuate the individual and effectively administer the required medical care.
Tension in the region has long resulted from China’s claims to almost the whole South China Sea, which is strategically significant and abundant in resources. In 2016, an international tribunal declared that China’s claims lacked legal support, ruling in favor of the Philippines. Beijing, however, disregarded the decision and persisted in claiming authority over the contested regions.
The most recent event is the latest in a string of clashes between the two nations’ fishing boats and coast guards. Accusations of unlawful fishing, territorial invasions, and vessel harassment are common in these encounters. Experts surmise that the regular skirmishes increase the possibility of errors in judgment, which might spark a more serious war in the area.
The Philippines has demanded more backing from other countries to respect the tribunal’s decision and guarantee freedom of passage in the South China Sea. In the meantime, China keeps constructing military facilities on artificial islands in the disputed waterways, which further muddies the geopolitical picture.
The international community is monitoring the situation as it unfolds, knowing full well that regional security and international trade depend on stability in the South China Sea.