The South China Sea, full of valuable resources and busy shipping lanes, is facing growing disagreements between countries that border the South China Sea- Vietnam, China, Taiwan, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. One particular spot causing a lot of trouble these days is the Second Thomas Shoal, a tiny reef in these waters, part of the disputed Spratly Islands. Both China and the Philippines lay claims to owning it.
What is the Second Thomas Shoal Dispute?
The Second Thomas Shoal might be small in area, but it’s causing big problems. Here’s a breakdown of why this tiny reef is such a big deal:
Both China and the Philippines say they own the shoal. China uses a big, curved line on a map which it terms the nine-dash line, to claim more than 90% of the South China Sea, including the shoal.
Recent Escalations at Second Thomas Shoal in 2024
Things at the Second Thomas Shoal have gotten tenser lately. Here’s a look at what’s been happening:
China’s Coast Guard ships have been spending a lot more time around the old Philippine warship Sierra Madre on the Shoal. For the small group of Filipino soldiers who live there, it’s getting harder for the Philippines to bring them supplies due to China’s coast guard activity.
The situation escalated further in March 2024 when the Philippine military accused China’s Coast Guard of using water cannons against a Philippine supply boat attempting to resupply the BRP Sierra Madre. This incident resulted in injuries to Filipino personnel and damage to their vessel.
Just a day ago, Japan, the US, Australia, and the Philippines held joint maritime exercises in the South China Sea to show their collective strength. In response, China also conducted ‘combat patrols‘ in the South China Sea.
On May 19, 2024, Chinese rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) intercepted an aerial resupply drop intended for Philippine Marines stationed aboard the BRP Sierra Madre at Second Thomas Shoal.The Chinese vessels came perilously close—within five meters—to the BRP Sierra Madre during the incident.
In response, the Philippine Marines deployed their weapons as a “precautionary measure” in self-defense. Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner emphasized that this action was consistent with the rules of engagement.
Chinese state media claimed that the Philippine Marines pointed guns at China Coast Guard officers. A video released by the AFP showed two Philippine personnel onboard the Sierra Madre wielding firearms.
However, the Armed Forces of the Philippines refuted these claims, attributing the Marines’ actions to heightened vigilance due to the “CCG’s provocative presence near BRP Sierra Madre.”
The China Coast Guard tore open the packages from the resupply drop and threw the foodstuffs into the water. While some supplies sank, others were recovered by Philippine personnel. Beijing has consistently cited the need to search for construction materials as a reason for intercepting Philippine resupply missions to Sierra Madre. In another May incident, the China Coast Guard had obstructed a medical evacuation mission from Sierra Madre.
The U.S.A factor
The fight over the South China Sea is partly about China and the United States flexing their muscles to show their power. The US has security alliances with several countries in the region, including the Philippines, which have competing claims with China in the South China Sea. It also maintains a strong military presence in the region, which serves as a deterrent to potential Chinese aggression. The US Navy conducts various exercises in the South China Sea, including near the Second Shoal, to uphold the principle of freedom of navigation.
India’s support to Philippines
As China’s actions raise concerns among neighboring countries, India’s strategic calculus comes into play.
- Balancing Act: India treads carefully, avoiding direct confrontation with China while signaling its support for the Philippines. It recognizes the importance of regional stability and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.
- ASEAN Code of Conduct: India advocates for an ASEAN-China Code of Conduct to manage disputes. Such a framework would promote peaceful resolution and prevent further escalation. India’s diplomatic efforts emphasize collaboration among major powers, including the United States and China.
- AUKUS and Regional Dynamics: The emergence of AUKUS—a security alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—has heightened tensions. China views this trilateral alliance with suspicion, fearing nuclear proliferation and an arms race. India’s role as an observer in AUKUS adds complexity to the regional balance.
- Strategic Interests: India’s interests lie in maintaining stability, ensuring freedom of navigation, and safeguarding its own maritime routes. While playing a “second fiddle,” India quietly supports the Philippines’ rights within its EEZ.
Conclusion
The Second Thomas Shoal dispute is a reminder of the simmering tensions in the South China Sea. The incident underscores the fragile balance in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes intersect with geopolitical interests. This disputed area, known for its strategic significance, has witnessed a dramatic confrontation involving military personnel and vital supplies. As both countries assert their claims, the fate of Second Thomas Shoal remains uncertain. Diplomatic efforts and de-escalation measures are crucial to prevent further escalation. It’s a complex issue with no easy answers, The future of China Philippines in the wider South China Sea region depends on a collective commitment to peace and cooperation.
