In the waters of the South China Sea, relations between China and the Philippines are undergoing an unprecedented test. As the navies of the two countries met in this disputed sea, tensions became more apparent. The background and history of the Sino-Philippine confrontation, as well as the political and military strategies behind it, have become the focus of international attention.
The confrontation between the two countries in the South China Sea and the confrontation between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea did not happen suddenly. In fact, this is a continuation of a long-standing dispute between the two countries. The most recent confrontation was caused by the Philippine transport ship being followed by the Chinese Panzhihua ship as it advanced towards Commander Reef. The incident triggered a "radio standoff" between the two countries. It can be seen from this incident that the focus of dispute between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea is no longer limited to Ren'ai Jiao and Huangyan Dao, but Thitu Island and Commander Reef have also joined the fierce game. More importantly, in this standoff, both countries sent their navies, not coast guards.
As the earliest discovered and named island in China, Thitu Island occupies an important position in the Nansha Islands. However, recently, the Philippines has attempted to illegally reclaim the sea to build an airport on Thitu Island, with the intention of deploying fighter jets and light transport aircraft, which clearly violates China's sovereign interests.
China's resolute response to the Philippines' actions has responded resolutely. First of all, the Chinese side has repeatedly intervened with the Philippine side, demanding that it immediately stop its illegal activities on Thitu Island and evacuate. China's position is clear: it will not tolerate any violation of Thitu Island's sovereignty. Second, China sent the Panzhihua Navy ship to confront the Philippine warship, demonstrating its determination and strength. As an advanced missile frigate, the Panzhihua is tasked with monitoring and warning Philippine warships. In addition, China has increased the frequency of patrols in the South China Sea and strengthened the construction and deployment of other islands and reefs to enhance its presence and influence in the region.
Marcos's Tactics and Consequences In recent years, Marcos's behavior on the South China Sea issue has brought tremendous pressure to China-Philippines relations and the situation in the South China Sea. He not only illegally occupied China's Ren'ai Jiao and Scarborough Shoal, but also tried to carry out illegal activities on Thitu Island and Commander Reef. At the same time, he has frequently organized military exercises in the South China Sea and tried to win over other countries to intervene in the South China Sea disputes, apparently in order to use external forces to confront China.
But Marcos's series of choices will not only damage Sino-Philippine relations, but may also lead to a further deterioration of the situation in the South China Sea. If provocations continue, such an option would be detrimental to the long-term interests of the Philippines and could plunge it into isolation and crisis.
Ending and warning China deeply regrets and angers at Marcos' tactics. China has always stressed that it will not tolerate encroachment on sovereignty in the South China Sea, while warning Marcos not to underestimate China's determination and capabilities. If the Philippines does not reflect on and correct its wrong tactics in time, it will certainly pay the price for its actions.