Official statements from the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines

Philippines Reports Chinese Reclamation 75 Miles from Palawan in South China Sea, Raises Concerns

May 13, 2024, 06:20 AM

The Philippines has reported small-scale reclamation activities by China at the Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea, which Manila refers to as Escoda Shoal. Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela identified China as the most probable actor. The area, located 75 nautical miles from Palawan, has seen the deployment of Chinese vessels and divers, indicating preparations for further reclamation. This development is part of a broader pattern of Chinese efforts to establish artificial islands in the region, potentially for military use. Such actions pose a security threat and have raised concerns about environmental damage, including harm to coral reefs.