Written By Lisa Murimi
A new flashpoint has emerged in the South China Sea as tensions between China and the Philippines escalate over the Sabina Shoal.
Both nations have long disputed ownership of various islands in the region, but the situation intensified last week when vessels from both countries collided near the shoal, each accusing the other of deliberate ramming.
The Sabina Shoal, known as Xianbin Jiao in China and Escoda Shoal in the Philippines, lies 75 nautical miles from the Philippines’ west coast and 630 nautical miles from China.
The recent clashes occurred on August 19, followed by a second collision on Sunday.
The Chinese coast guard claimed the Philippine vessel “deliberately collided” with them, while the Philippines accused Chinese ships of “aggressive maneuvers.”
The Philippines suspects China is attempting to reclaim land at the shoal, pointing to underwater mounds of crushed coral as evidence.
China, however, has dismissed these allegations as “groundless” and maintains its actions were lawful and professional.
International criticism of China’s actions has grown, with countries like the UK, Japan, and Australia condemning Beijing’s behavior.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has warned that any Filipino deaths resulting from these incidents would be considered an “act of war,” raising concerns about a potential larger confrontation in the South China Sea.
