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18h ago

Philippines and China Escalate Tensions Over Disputed Sandbank in South China Sea

Both nations planted flags on Sandy Cay as US-Philippine military drills intensify regional dynamics.

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Philippine officers unfurl their national flag on a sandbar in Sandy Cay on April 27, 2025.
Philippine and U.S. soldiers walk past a MADIS or Marine Air Defense Integrated System during the annual joint military exercises between the U.S. and Philippine troops called "Balikatan" or shoulder-to-shoulder, at a naval base in San Antonio, Zambales province, Philippines, April 27, 2025. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez
U.S. soldiers talk beside an Avenger Air Defense System during the annual joint military exercises between U.S. and Philippine troops called "Balikatan" or shoulder-to-shoulder, at a naval base in San Antonio, Zambales province, Philippines, April 27, 2025. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez

Overview

  • China and the Philippines staged symbolic flag-planting operations on Sandy Cay, a contested sandbank in the Spratly Islands, to assert territorial claims.
  • The Chinese coast guard accused six Filipino personnel of 'illegally boarding' the reef and stated they 'dealt with' the situation under Chinese law.
  • The Philippines responded with a coordinated maritime operation involving its navy, coast guard, and police, emphasizing its sovereignty in the area.
  • The ongoing US-Philippine Balikatan military exercises, featuring integrated air and missile defense drills, have drawn sharp criticism from Beijing.
  • Despite heightened tensions, there is no evidence of permanent occupation or construction on Sandy Cay by either side.