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Philippines-China Deal to Smooth Deliveries to Marooned Marines in Doubt: News Analysis

Background

The Philippines and China are engaged in a territorial dispute over the South China Sea, which has led to tensions and confrontations in the past.

In November 2022, a Philippine Navy ship delivered supplies to a group of marines stranded on a ship at the disputed Scarborough Shoal.

Interim Deal

In early December 2022, China and the Philippines reached an interim deal aimed at smoothing the delivery of supplies to the marines.

The Philippines claimed that Chinese Coast Guard vessels had obstructed previous deliveries with “aggressive manoeuvres” and “illegal wire-cutting” tactics.

Doubts Emerge

However, the deal is now in doubt after Manila accused China of failing to adhere to its terms.

Philippine officials stated that Chinese vessels had harassed and intimidated Philippine vessels attempting to deliver supplies.

The Philippines has also accused China of violating the interim deal by sending armed personnel to the shoal in civilian clothes.

Tensions Rise

The failure of the interim deal has raised concerns about escalating tensions in the South China Sea.

The Philippines has expressed concerns for the safety of its marines and has called on China to respect maritime rules.

China has maintained that its actions are consistent with its sovereignty claims and has accused the Philippines of “provocations.”

International Impact

The situation in the South China Sea has attracted international attention.

US President Joe Biden has stated that the US will defend the Philippines in case of any attack.

The US has also called on China to respect international law and maintain freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.