Filipino Forces Struggle to Live in Beijing’s Shadow in Disputed South China Sea

A Filipino army official, Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, knelt to kiss the shore of a picturesque island in the disputed South China Sea. She held a small Philippine flag that fluttered in the breeze as she gazed out at the turquoise waters and giant sea turtle sanctuaries. “This is so beautiful,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “This hardens your own resolve to fight for this place whatever happens.”

The Island of Likas

The island, called Likas by Filipinos, spans 18.6 hectares (46 acres) of powdery white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters that could easily become an eco-tourism draw in tropical Asia if it were not for its isolation from the mainland Philippines and other nearby islands. Padilla expressed hope that one day the island could be opened to Filipino travelers and tourists from across the world.

Territorial Disputes

The Philippines contests China’s expansive claims, with territorial stand-offs increasingly flaring into cat-and-mouse confrontations at sea in recent years. China claims virtually the entire South China Sea as its own ancient territory, rich in undersea deposits of gas and oil, making it a vital global trade route.

In mid-2022, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took over as president after winning an election widely seen as a milestone for his family dynasty, which has spent decades building their political career around strong anti-Chinese views. However, under President Marcos Jr., steps have been taken to improve ties with Beijing despite ongoing tensions over territorial disputes between the two countries, both members of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations).

Marcos has sought closer economic ties with Beijing while also strengthening military cooperation between Manila and Washington amid rising tensions between U.S. and China’s navies.

Recent Developments

In response to these developments, Philippine troops occupied Thitu Island, setting up tents on what was once Chinese soil. This area was seized by Manila’s forces during clashes last year when Chinese vessels withdrew after being bombarded by artillery fire from Filipino warships.

Padilla stated, “We are here because we want our people here. We will stay here until there is no more threat.” She expressed hope that one day Likas would be open again, but only when security had been guaranteed.

“It’s very hard living on this island,” Padilla repeated, turning towards her tent where soldiers were busy cooking lunch.

Historical Context

Likas has been occupied since 1974 when Manila first sent troops there after Chinese forces took control of nearby islands, including the Paracel Islands. Filipino officials are uncertain how long they can maintain their presence on Likas but assert they will continue to fight against any attempts by Beijing or other foreign powers claiming ownership over territories under the sovereignty rights granted by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

China claims virtually all parts within the nine-dash line surrounding the Spratly Islands chain, which is home to many tiny uninhabited rocks and reefs, while also claiming historic rights dating back centuries prior to the signing of the UNCLOS treaty. However, neither claim is recognized internationally, except among some non-member states like Russia and India.

Philippines’ Position

The Philippines asserts sovereignty over the Spratlys based on geographical proximity, historical presence, and occupation since the colonial period prior to independence in August 1946. The country maintains the right to self-defense against any armed attack, regardless of the source.

The U.S.-Philippines defense pact allows U.S. military access to bases within the country, facilitating joint patrols, exercises, and training operations aimed at enhancing interoperability and readiness to respond to emergencies, protecting freedom of navigation, and ensuring security and stability in the region.

International Law and Navigation Rights

Beijing claims that all activities conducted outside exclusive economic zones (EEZs) violate international law, citing Article III, paragraph three of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. This article states that coastal states may exercise sovereign rights over natural resources found within their EEZ, extending up to a maximum distance of twelve nautical miles from the baseline.

However, the article does not prohibit transit passage through straits used for international navigation nor does it require permission from the coastal state prior to entering such areas. It requires due regard for safety and navigation, preventing damage to ships and the marine environment.

Moreover, Article 5 of the UN Convention recognizes the right of innocent passage through territorial seas, provided vessels comply with certain conditions, including navigating along established routes and avoiding interference with normal use of port facilities.

Conclusion

The ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea highlight the complexities of international law, national sovereignty, and regional security. As tensions continue to rise, the Philippines remains steadfast in its commitment to protect its territorial claims while navigating the intricate dynamics of its relationships with both China and the United States.