Tensions Rise in the South China Sea as China Coast Guard Responds to Philippine Actions

The China Coast Guard (CCG) has accused six personnel from the Philippines of illegally boarding the Tiexian Jiao in the South China Sea, despite prior warnings to refrain from such actions. CCG spokesperson Liu Dejun stated that this incident necessitated a response, leading officers to board Tiexian Jiao to assess the situation and take lawful measures. Liu emphasized that China's sovereignty over the Nansha Islands, including Tiexian Jiao, is undeniable and highlighted that the Philippine actions contravene territorial rights and disrupt peace in the region.

Liu called on the Philippines to stop its incursions, asserting that the CCG would continue to protect Chinese rights in what is deemed its territorial waters. Since 2024, the Philippines has allegedly made several attempts to send vessels close to Chinese islands claiming to monitor potential constructions of artificial islands. Reports have surfaced indicating that CCG officers recently conducted inspections on Tiexian Jiao and documented illegal activities while also asserting sovereignty by displaying the national flag and cleaning debris from the area.

A recent report from the Ministry of Natural Resources pointed out a decline in coral coverage around Tiexian Jiao and Niu'e Jiao. The deterioration at Tiexian Jiao was notably worse, attributed to natural events like the crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks and human activities, particularly illegal fishing operations undertaken by the Philippines, which are believed to have contributed to the environmental damage observed in the region.