China’s coast guard has announced that it has seized control of Tiexian Reef, also known as Sandy Cay, in the contested waters of the South China Sea. The move comes amid ongoing territorial disputes between Beijing and Manila, with China asserting its sovereignty over the reef and dismissing international claims that challenge its position.
China’s Assertion of Sovereignty
Chinese state media reported that the country’s coast guard implemented maritime control over Tiexian Reef in mid-April, reinforcing its claim over the sandbank. According to Chinese coast guard spokesperson Liu Dejun, six Filipinos had illegally boarded the reef despite warnings from Chinese authorities. The Coast Guard then investigated and dealt with the situation in accordance with the law, though further details on the encounter remain undisclosed.
China has consistently maintained that its actions in the South China Sea aim to safeguard territorial sovereignty, dismissing competing claims from other nations and an international ruling that found its expansive territorial assertions legally baseless.
Philippines Disputes China’s Claim
The Philippine government has rejected China’s assertion, stating that a team sent to Tiexian Reef found no Chinese presence on the sandbars during their visit. The disputed reef lies near Thitu Island (Pag-asa), which hosts a Philippine military facility. Manila has repeatedly accused Beijing of aggressive maneuvers in the region, including blocking resupply missions and harassing Filipino vessels.
Joint Military Drills with the U.S.
Amid escalating tensions, the Philippines and the United States have launched their annual Balikatan military exercises, involving over 14,000 troops. The drills, which include integrated air and missile defense simulations, are aimed at countering perceived Chinese aggression in the region. Beijing has condemned the exercises, calling them destabilizing and warning against further military cooperation between Manila and Washington.
China’s Accusations Against the Philippines
China has accused the Philippines of unlawful actions, claiming that Manila’s activities in the South China Sea violate its territorial sovereignty. Chinese state media released footage of coast guard officials landing on Tiexian Reef, unfurling the Chinese flag, and inspecting the area. Beijing insists that its Coast Guard Act is within its rights to protect its maritime territory and prevent further infringements.
Conclusion
The latest developments at Tiexian Reef underscore the deepening tensions between China and the Philippines over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. As Manila strengthens its military cooperation with Washington, Beijing continues to assert its sovereignty over contested waters, setting the stage for further confrontations in the region.
