Philippines Rejects China's Patrol Strengthening at Scarborough Shoal, Demands Withdrawal

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has strongly condemned China's renewed implementing rules and regulations concerning Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc), calling them a violation of Philippine sovereignty and maritime rights, and demanding their withdrawal. "We call on China to refrain from implementing these measures, withdraw its issuances, and respect the Philippines’ sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in accordance with international law, particularly the 2016 Arbitral Award," said DFA spokesperson for maritime affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary Rogelio Villanueva Jr. The DFA issued the statement after reports emerged that China had renewed its implementing rules and regulations covering Scarborough Shoal, which Beijing calls Huangyan Dao. These regulations are reportedly intended to strengthen China’s control over the shoal through routine patrols and the immediate investigation of activities they consider violations of Chinese law. "In the same manner, we reject this declaration and the issuances of the different agencies of China," Villanueva added. Meanwhile, the DFA confirmed that reports of alleged military drills by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy in the West Philippine Sea had also reached the department. Villanueva stated that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) were continuously monitoring these reported activities. "What we can assure the public is that the AFP and the PCG are continuously monitoring these incidents," he said. "The Philippine government remains committed to protecting our interests and upholding our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction." This development highlights escalating tensions between the Philippines and China over maritime claims in the South China Sea, with Manila reaffirming its stance based on international law and the 2016 Arbitral Award.