The United States has voiced its support for the Philippines' freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, following the withdrawal of a Philippine ship from the disputed Escoda Shoal. This move comes after China declared "indisputable sovereignty" over the area.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated that China's maritime claims in the South China Sea lack legal basis and its aggressive enforcement tactics endanger Filipino lives and livelihoods.
"It is up to the Philippines to decide how they operate their vessels in areas where it enjoys the freedom of navigation in the high seas under international law," Miller emphasized.
The Philippines, while acknowledging the ship's repositioning, maintains that it has not lost control of Escoda Shoal. This incident follows a pattern of escalating tensions in the South China Sea, with Chinese vessels repeatedly engaging in aggressive actions against Philippine vessels in disputed areas.
China's coast guard asserted its "indisputable sovereignty" over Sabina Shoal, also known as Xianbin Jiao, after the Philippines withdrew its flagship BRP Teresa Magbanua from the area.
The US has repeatedly condemned China's actions in the South China Sea, reiterating its commitment to supporting its Philippine ally. The situation underscores the ongoing maritime disputes in the region and the potential for further escalation.
