Scarborough buoys not for reclamation — NMC
Philippines monitors Scarborough Shoal activity
The Philippines does not view China’s buoy placements at Scarborough Shoal as an indication of future island-building, but has readied possible responses should such activities take place, according to the National Maritime Council (NMC).
Official statement from the National Maritime Council
“There’s no reclamation activity and we are closely monitoring it,” said NMC spokesman Alexander S. Lopez during a security forum in Manila.
Lopez added that authorities are tracking developments at the contested site on a day-to-day basis, stressing that there will be no pause in efforts to prevent any reclamation work.
“If ever there will be, we will come up with the appropriate actions to it,” he said, emphasizing that the government will act through peaceful means whenever possible but remains prepared for stronger responses if required.
Background on the territorial dispute
Scarborough Shoal, referred to as Panatag Shoal by Manila and Huangyan Dao by Beijing, remains a focal point of tensions between the Philippines and China. Both nations continue to assert claims over several features in the South China Sea, an area through which trillions of dollars in trade pass each year.
Author’s Summary
Manila dismisses China’s Scarborough buoys as non-reclamation markers but stays alert, ready to respond through peaceful or necessary defensive actions to protect its maritime interests.