Overview

• The Philippines continues patrolling the disputed South China Sea area, defying China's claims and actions.
• Manila disputes China's assertion that a Philippine vessel was expelled from the Second Thomas Shoal, emphasizing ongoing security efforts for local fishermen.
• Recent incidents, including accusations of cyanide fishing by Chinese crews, have escalated tensions between the two nations.
• The Philippine Senate approved an amendment to claim man-made features within its EEZ, including militarized reefs by China.
• Joint air patrols involving Philippine fighter jets and a US bomber over the South China Sea underscore the international dimension of the dispute.