Philippines, China Trade Accusations Over Incidents Near Scarborough Shoal and Thitu Island

Tensions flared once again in the South China Sea as China and the Philippines traded accusations of provocation following two mid-October encounters near Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) and Thitu Island (Pag-asa).

Happening just days apart, the incidents underscore Beijing's growing assertiveness and Manila's determination to defend its maritime claims in the West Philippine Sea, the part of the South China Sea that lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Aerial Standoff Over Scarborough Shoal

Scarborough Shoal has long been one of the most sensitive flashpoints between the two countries since China seized control of it in 2012. In September, Beijing declared a marine reserve on the shoal, a move Manila immediately protested, stressing that the shoal lies within its EEZ.

On October 16, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said a Chinese jet harassed a Philippine maritime patrol aircraft during a routine surveillance mission near