Philippines takes diplomatic action against China over floating structure in South China Sea
MANILA: The Philippines’ foreign ministry has undertaken appropriate diplomatic action against China in connection with the “illegal presence” of a floating structure in a disputed atoll, the country’s South China Sea task force said on Tuesday.
The task force confirmed the presence of a floating structure measuring 6 by 6 meters and featuring what appeared to be an antenna in the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.
“The Philippine government will continue to take appropriate actions consistent with international law and in defense of the country’s national interests,” it said in a statement, adding that the protection of Manila’s sovereignty and jurisdiction “remains a paramount consideration.”
The structure, initially spotted at the entrance to the shoal and later inside its lagoon, appeared to be manned, the task force said, citing the latest images from the armed forces.
