The Philippines announced on Friday that it is setting up a coast guard station on Thitu Island, the largest island it holds in the disputed South China Sea. This move is aimed at improving monitoring of Chinese vessels that assert Beijing’s claims in the region. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año made the announcement during his visit to the Philippine-held Thitu Island, which is part of the hotly contested Spratly Islands.
The newly established coast guard station will be equipped with advanced systems, including radar, satellite communication, coastal cameras, and vessel traffic management. It is expected to be operational early next year. Año emphasized that these systems will greatly enhance the Philippine Coast Guard’s ability to monitor the movements of Chinese maritime forces, as well as those of other countries and their own public vessels and aircraft.
According to Año, the collection of real-time data will have a significant impact on the behavior of rival claimants, particularly China. He described it as a “game changer” in the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Thitu Island, located approximately 430 kilometers (267 miles) from the major Philippine island of Palawan and over 900 kilometers from China’s nearest major landmass of Hainan Island, holds strategic importance in the region.
Beijing claims the majority of the South China Sea, including waters and islands close to the shores of neighboring countries. It has disregarded an international tribunal decision that declared its assertion to have no legal basis. China has deployed vessels to patrol the waters and has constructed artificial islands and military installations to reinforce its stance.
The Philippines, along with Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam, also lays claim to various islands and reefs in the South China Sea, which is believed to have significant petroleum reserves beneath its waters.
Recent months have witnessed strained relations between Manila and Beijing due to a series of incidents in the waters, including collisions between Philippine and Chinese boats, with both countries trading blame. Año accused Chinese coast guard and other vessels of engaging in “illegal” and “aggressive” behavior towards Filipino fishermen and patrol boats, describing it as pure bullying. He affirmed the Philippines’ determination to stand its ground and not be deterred by any power that attempts to oppress or outmuscle them.
The establishment of the coast guard station on Thitu Island underscores the Philippines’ commitment to safeguarding its territorial claims and protecting the interests of its citizens. By enhancing their monitoring capabilities, the Philippines aims to promote stability and security in the South China Sea region.
It is important for all parties involved to engage in peaceful dialogue and adhere to international laws and regulations to find a mutually acceptable resolution to the territorial disputes. The international community plays a crucial role in encouraging diplomatic negotiations and ensuring the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.
As the situation in the South China Sea continues to evolve, the establishment of the coast guard station on Thitu Island will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing discussions and efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region.
Source: The Manila Times
