The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) stated that it will continue to expose Chinese ship incursions in the South China Sea in order to drive Chinese forces out of its territorial waters. The PCG believes that by making these incursions public, it will prompt the international community to criticize China’s actions and deter Chinese vessels from occupying Philippine-controlled islands in the disputed waters. PCG spokesman Jay Tarriela emphasized the importance of exposing these incursions to prevent China from taking control of the area. He also mentioned that the PCG will increase navy patrols in areas where Chinese ships have been spotted, particularly in Iroquois Reef, where there has been a concerning presence of Chinese vessels.
The Philippine military reported spotting 48 Chinese fishing boats around Iroquois Reef on June 30. In addition, five other Chinese ships, including coast guard ships and navy vessels, were regularly loitering at Sabina Shoal. These incidents raised concern about China’s intentions and actions in the area, especially regarding the energy security and economic growth of the Philippines. The PCG also reported that their vessels were followed, harassed, and obstructed by two Chinese coast guard ships while assisting a naval operation in Ayungin Shoal on the same day.
The United States, Japan, and France have expressed their concerns over China’s actions in the South China Sea. They called on China to adhere to international law and abide by the 2016 ruling of the Hague Tribunal, which supported the Philippines’ claims in the region. Publicizing these incidents is seen as imposing a reputational cost on China and deterring future gray zone activities. Beijing claims much of the South China Sea as its own territory, but countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei have clashed with China over its claims in the area.