Tensions Escalate in South China Sea Amid Disputed Patrols

The Philippines has accused China of provocative actions, deploying flares, and harassing aircraft near the South China Sea. These incidents threaten regional peace and erode China's international reputation. Both nations had earlier agreed to restore trust. A 2016 tribunal deemed Beijing's extensive claims illegitimate, favoring the Philippines.

The Philippines has demanded that China immediately cease all provocative and dangerous actions following accusations of deploying flares from the China-occupied Subi Reef while a Manila aircraft conducted patrols on August 22.

The Manila aircraft also faced harassment from a Chinese jet fighter during a surveillance flight near Scarborough Shoal on August 19, according to a statement from the Philippines' South China Sea Task Force. 'Such actions undermine regional peace and security, and further erode the image of the PRC with the international community,' the task force said.

There has been no immediate comment from the Chinese Embassy in Manila regarding these incidents. Tensions have been high, with both nations accusing each other of ramming vessels and performing dangerous maneuvers in the South China Sea the same week. These incidents come less than two weeks after a similar altercation between Chinese and Philippine forces in Scarborough Shoal, despite earlier agreements to restore trust and manage maritime disputes better.

(With inputs from agencies.)