cross-posted from: https://beehaw.org/post/18057351
- China increases its aggressive tactics in the South China Sea, with the Philippines becoming a major target
- Philippine ships face increasing harassment, including blockades, ramming, and non-lethal weapons such as lasers and water cannons
- This large-scale maritime occupation infringes Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, displaying China’s growing confidence and belligerence
In recent years, we’ve seen China become more confident and confrontational, especially in the South China Sea region. Their aggressive tactics have intensified, with the Philippines now standing out as a primary target.
China is making full use of its considerable maritime power, pushing boundaries and displaying no signs of backing down – quite literally. There has been a marked increase in instances where Chinese ships have obstructed, rammed or swarmed the vessels of the island nation. Sounds like something from a pirate movie, doesn’t it? But this isn’t fiction.
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Infringement of Philippine Waters
The South China Sea also plays host to the Philippines’ internationally recognized exclusive economic zone (or EEZ). This basically means that the Philippines has special rights over the exploration and use of marine resources in this area. It’s akin to having your own backyard, where you should be free to do what you need without interference.
However, what Manila now faces is a large-scale maritime invasion by what can only be described as a hostile imperial power. This is similar to having a territorial bully walk into your backyard and claim it as its own.
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To sum it up, the situation in the South China Sea reflects China’s rising audacity. [China's] belligerent maneuvers, particularly towards the Philippines, reveal a scenario of maritime machismo in full swing. In a world that so often extols the virtues of peace, diplomacy and respect for international boundaries, what China is doing is downright audacious.
With each swarming event, each blockade, and every powerful laser beam, the tension mounts further. However, the world watches and waits, hoping for a resolution that respects international law and the sanctity of sovereign waters.
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