Satellite images confirmed a structure’s presence at the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea last week, but later images show it is no longer there. The Philippines is investigating reports about a new structure on the shoal, which China has sought to control since 2012. Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro mentioned receiving information about this structure during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.
Images from May 27, 29, and 30 indicate a possible floating raft or buoy and a barrier at the entrance of the atoll. A U. S.-based group, SeaLight, shared a satellite image from May 28 showing a distinct reflective object in the lagoon entrance. They stated it appeared to be a permanent feature and not an optical illusion, but it was absent in a June 1 image, indicating the structure is gone.
Scarborough Shoal, known as “Huangyan Dao” in China, is a highly disputed area, raising concerns about potential armed conflict. The Chinese foreign ministry affirmed its sovereignty over the Shoal and defended their activities there. In recent years, clashes between the Chinese coast guard and Philippine fishermen have increased, as the Shoal is near important shipping routes and rich fishing grounds.
Chinese military patrols occurred after joint Philippine-U. S. maritime exercises in the area. While a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration favored the Philippines regarding South China Sea issues, it did not determine sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal. The court criticized China’s blockade as a violation of international law. Last year, China declared a national nature reserve at the shoal, prompting condemnation from the Philippines as a guise for occupation.
With information from Reuters
