This week, tensions in the South China Sea worsened after the US denounced China for what it called a “deliberate collision” with two Philippine coastguard vessels. The incident occurred near the contested Sabina Shoal, further straining relations between China, the Philippines, and the US.
The Collision Incident
The confrontation took place near Sabina Shoal. A disputed maritime area within the Spratly Islands. On Monday, both China and the Philippines confirmed that their coast guard ships had collided. The Philippines claimed that its vessels were conducting lawful maritime operations. While China argued that its actions were necessary to safeguard its territorial sovereignty.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of confrontations in the South China Sea, where Beijing claims almost the entire area. An international tribunal has ruled that China’s extensive claims have no legal basis, but Beijing continues to assert its dominance.
US Response and Support for the Philippines
US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan strongly condemned China’s actions during a call with his counterpart in Manila, Eduardo M. Año. Sullivan described the collision as a “deliberate” and dangerous act by China. He also reaffirmed the US’s “ironclad” commitment to the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty.
This treaty ensures that any armed attack on Philippine forces, public vessels, or aircraft, including those of its coast guard, will be considered an attack on the United States. Sullivan emphasized that this commitment extends to incidents in the South China Sea, a region of growing strategic importance.
$500 Million in US Military Financing
The discussion between Sullivan and Año also highlighted the recently announced $500 million in US foreign military financing for the Philippines. This funding, provided under the Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act. It is intended to help modernise the Philippine armed forces and coast guard. The goal is to enhance the Philippines’ ability to protect its maritime interests and respond to potential threats in the region.
The White House stated that this additional security assistance would strengthen US-Philippine cooperation. In particular to uphold international maritime law in the South China Sea. This cooperation is seen as crucial in countering China’s increasingly aggressive actions in the region.
China’s Response
In response to the US condemnation, China warned Washington against interfering in its maritime disputes with the Philippines. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the US “has no right to intervene” and accused the US of provoking confrontation in the South China Sea.
Beijing has long argued that its actions in the South China Sea are legal and aimed at protecting its territorial sovereignty. Many analysts believe that China is gradually pushing its control eastward from the Second Thomas Shoal towards Sabina Shoal. And encroaching on the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
A Broader Pattern of Tension
This recent collision is not an isolated incident. The Philippines and China have had repeated confrontations in the South China Sea over the past year. One of the most notable areas of tension is the Second Thomas Shoal, where a Philippine warship has been grounded since 1999 and serves as a garrison.
China’s actions near Sabina Shoal appear to be part of a broader strategy to assert control over key maritime features in the South China Sea. In 2012, Beijing took control of Scarborough Shoal, another strategic area close to the Philippines. Many analysts see parallels between that incident and the current situation at Sabina Shoal.
The Path Forward
As tensions continue to rise, the US and the Philippines are deepening their defense ties. The US’s strong support for the Philippines signals its commitment to maintaining a balance of power in the region. And to ensure that international maritime laws are respected.
The situation remains volatile. The ongoing confrontations between China and the Philippines, combined with US involvement, could lead to further escalation. The international community will be watching closely as these developments unfold in the South China Sea. As the region has become a flashpoint for great power competition.