The best path to de-escalation at Scarborough Shoal would be a joint stewardship agreement, not China’s unilateral marine park
To many, China’s latest ploy is a fresh attempt to change the facts on the ground, using environmental rhetoric to consolidate its hold on a flashpoint feature. Manila considers China’s occupation of the reef a red line, so Beijing’s nature reserve gambit may invite a bold reply, further fraying bilateral ties.
Tensions have risen in recent weeks as China stepped up its presence and activities in and around the shoal. This has included disrupting routine Philippine patrols and supply runs to support Filipino fishers operating in the area.
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