Philippines Seeks UN Recognition for Extended Continental Shelf in South China Sea

Manila's move to establish sovereign rights over seabed resources challenges China's extensive territorial claims.

The Philippines has filed a claim with the UN to extend its continental shelf in the South China Sea, seeking exclusive rights to exploit resources.
The claim follows over 15 years of scientific research and aims to secure future resource exploration and exploitation rights.
China, which claims nearly the entire South China Sea, is expected to contest the Philippines' submission.
The disputed area includes the Spratly Islands, which are also claimed by Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan, and Indonesia.
Tensions have escalated between China and the Philippines, with recent confrontations involving water cannons and dangerous maneuvers by Chinese vessels.