The Philippines has reaffirmed that it has not abandoned Sabina Shoal, following the withdrawal of the BRP Teresa Magbanua, which returned to port on 15 September 2024. Manila clarified that the vessel was pulled back due to bad weather, depleted supplies, and the need for repairs and medical care for the crew. Despite the ship's return, Philippine Coast Guard Spokesperson Jay Tarriela stressed that "we have not lost anything", insisting that the move was not a defeat and that the Philippines will continue to maintain a presence in the disputed waters.
China, however, asserts "indisputable sovereignty" over the shoal and warned the Philippines to cease its activities. Analysts have raised concerns that the withdrawal could allow China to further assert its dominance and accelerate reclamation activities in the area. Political Science Professor Sherwin Ona emphasised the importance of sustaining a presence at Sabina Shoal to prevent further Chinese encroachment.
Meanwhile, defence analysts like Carl Thayer criticised the lack of a replacement ship, warning that China now holds the initiative and may block any future deployments.
#marcosjr #xijinping #philippines #worldnews
n18oc_world n18oc_crux
CRUX is your daily video news guide to the big events that are shaping our world. We track news, geopolitics, diplomacy and defence strategies and explain how they shape national policies. Crux makes sense of global developments, and analyses their impact on daily lives.
Follow CRUX on Telegram: bit.ly/3fnlLua
Follow CRUX on Instagram (@crux.india): bit.ly/3qSFx1K
Follow CRUX on Facebook: bit.ly/2Lte7iF
#GetCloserToTheNews with latest headlines on politics, sports and entertainment on news18.com bit.ly/2Y4QccL
Also watch:
Crux Decode: bit.ly/3MjzIoG
Crux+ : bit.ly/35mm97B
Crux Most Watched: bit.ly/3KhJ8iX
28 сен 2024
