Chinese vessels issued warnings to Philippine ships near Scarborough Shoal, claiming the area as an “environmental reserve” under China’s jurisdiction. This marks the first time China has used the term “nature reserve” to restrict access to the disputed territory.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) conducted a humanitarian mission to deliver food and fuel to Filipino fishermen operating near the shoal. During the operation, Chinese ships transmitted radio messages ordering Philippine vessels to leave, citing environmental protection measures.
The PCG maintained its course, asserting that Scarborough Shoal lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and remains under Philippine sovereignty.
The Philippine government protested China’s designation of the area as a “nature reserve,” calling the move illegal under international law. Officials said the action violates the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s sweeping claims in the South China Sea.