Philippines Urges UN Security Council to Stop China's Reclamation in Disputed West Philippine Sea

Strategic Insights -

The Philippines has expressed concern over China's massive reclamation activities in the West Philippine Sea, describing it as a "direct threat" to the security of the Philippines and other claimant countries. According to Philippine Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Irene Susan Natividad, the reclamation activities will irreparably damage the entire ecological balance in the region and have long-term effects on those who depend on the sea for their livelihood. China's reclamation projects are ongoing in sensitive areas in the South China Sea, including Johnson Reef, McKennan and Hughes Reef, Cuarteron Reef, and Gaven Reef.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Philippines has called on the UN Security Council to stop China's massive reclamation activities in the disputed West Philippine Sea, citing it as a direct threat to the security of the Philippines and other claimant countries.
  • Ambassador Natividad stated that the reclamation activities will irreparably damage the entire ecological balance in the region and have long-term effects on those who depend on the sea for their livelihood.
  • China has undertaken massive land reclamation activities in Johnson Reef, McKennan and Hughes Reef, Cuarteron Reef, and Gaven Reef in the South China Sea over the last two years.
  • The Philippines has handed a protest note to the Chinese Embassy in Manila in connection with reclamation activities being undertaken by China at Panganiban Reef.
  • A recent incident involving Chinese and Filipino vessels at the Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal/Panatag Shoal) resulted in three Philippine-flagged fishing vessels being intentionally rammed by a Chinese Coast Guard vessel, endangering the lives and safety of Filipino fishermen.
  • The Philippines has resorted to arbitration to clarify maritime entitlements and settle maritime disputes peacefully through the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea ( UNCLOS).
  • Ambassador Natividad reaffirmed the Philippines' strong commitment to promote global peace and security by resolving conflicts at home and in the region.

Statistics:

  • China has undertaken massive land reclamation activities in Johnson Reef, McKennan and Hughes Reef, Cuarteron Reef, and Gaven Reef over the last two years.
  • Three Philippine-flagged fishing vessels were intentionally rammed by a Chinese Coast Guard vessel at the Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal/Panatag Shoal) last January.
  • 2015 marks the 70th year of the United Nations' establishment, and the UN Security Council Open Debate was convened by China in its capacity as President of the Security Council for the month of February.

Sources:

  • United Nations Charter
  • United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
  • Philippine Coast Guard report
  • Statement by Ambassador Irene Susan Natividad, Philippine Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council Open Debate
  • Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's participation in the UN Security Council Open Debate