Philippines Files Diplomatic Protest Against China Over Scarborough Shoal Incident

MANILA—The Philippines’ foreign ministry announced on Dec 5 that it filed a diplomatic protest against China over a maritime confrontation near the Scarborough Shoal on Dec 4. This marks the 60th protest against Beijing in 2024 and the 193rd since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assumed office in 2022.

The Scarborough Shoal, a critical fishing ground within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, remains a flashpoint in the South China Sea. China’s expansive claims over the region, encompassing nearly the entire sea, have drawn disputes from neighbouring nations, including Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Despite a 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling in The Hague invalidating Beijing’s claims, China continues to assert control, rejecting the verdict as baseless.

The Dec 4 incident involved allegations from the Philippines of aggressive manoeuvres by Chinese vessels, which reportedly endangered Filipino fishermen. In response, China accused the Philippines of violating its sovereignty by operating near the contested shoal. This exchange highlights the deepening rift between Manila and Beijing as both sides engage in frequent confrontations over the resource-rich waters.

President Marcos Jr has strengthened ties with the United States and other allies to counter China's assertive actions, signalling a departure from his predecessor’s softer stance on Beijing. The U.S. has reaffirmed its defence commitments to the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty, particularly regarding attacks in the South China Sea.

The diplomatic protest underlines the growing urgency for regional mechanisms to de-escalate tensions and ensure maritime safety. However, with neither side showing signs of backing down, the South China Sea remains a volatile theatre for geopolitical rivalry.