The Philippines announced Friday it would set up a coast guard on the largest of its islands in the South China Sea to monitor ships sent by Beijing, which claims sovereignty over the region.
AFP
That station, scheduled to become operational in early 2024, will be equipped with “advanced” surveillance systems, including radars, cameras and satellite tools, national security adviser Eduardo Ano said during a visit to the Philippine island of Thitu.
AFP
“These systems will significantly improve (the Coast Guard’s) ability to monitor the movements of naval forces from China and other countries that may come here, as well as our own ships and aircraft,” he added.
AFP
Relations between Manila and Beijing have deteriorated in recent months following a series of incidents in the area, including two collisions between Chinese and Philippine ships for which the two countries blame each other.
AFP
The collection of real-time data will have an “impact on the behavior” of those who claim sovereignty over these islands, Mr Ano also assured, pointing to a “tipping point”.
AFP
Beijing claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, including waters and islands near neighboring countries, although an international court ruled in 2016 that those claims have no legal basis.
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China has sent ships to the region and built islands and military facilities there to bolster its claims.
AFP
The Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam also have claims to several islands in these waters, which could contain significant oil reserves at depth.
AFP
On Friday, Eduardo Ano accused China of “illegal” and “aggressive” behavior against Filipino fishermen and coast guards. “It’s pure harassment,” he assured. “We will not give in and defend ourselves. No power that tries to oppress us (…) will be able to dissuade us,” he added.