China and Philippines Clash Over South China Sea Boundaries

Tensions escalate as China rejects new Philippine maritime laws, asserting sovereignty over disputed waters.

China has published baselines for the Scarborough Shoal, which both China and the Philippines claim, intensifying territorial disputes.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed laws defining maritime entitlements, which China opposes as a violation of its sovereignty.
China's Foreign Ministry insists on defending its territorial claims, rejecting a 2016 international arbitration ruling against its expansive claims.
Frequent confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels have occurred, including the use of water cannons by China's coastguard.
The United States, allied with the Philippines, supports the international court ruling and has pledged defense support in case of armed conflict.