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China Conducts Combat Patrols in Disputed South China Sea Waters Amid Rising Tensions with Philippines

By The South Asia Times

BEIJING - China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) has stepped up its military presence in the disputed South China Sea, conducting combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Dao—also known internationally as Scarborough Shoal—amid growing tensions with the Philippines.

According to a statement released on May 31 by the PLA Southern Theater Command, Chinese forces organized air and naval units to carry out patrol and alert missions in the territorial waters and airspace surrounding Huangyan Dao and its adjacent areas. The command described the operation as part of its broader efforts to “further strengthen management and control” over the region, with the stated goal of “resolutely safeguarding national sovereignty and security” while “firmly maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea.”

This latest round of patrols follows a series of confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the contested waters. The Philippines, which also claims sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal, has accused China of aggressive maneuvers, including the use of water cannons and blocking Philippine supply boats—allegations that Beijing has repeatedly denied, asserting its “indisputable sovereignty” over the area.

Huangyan Dao is located about 120 nautical miles west of the Philippine island of Luzon.

The PLA’s statement emphasized its continued patrol efforts since the beginning of May, suggesting an increased tempo of military activities in response to what China perceives as external provocations.

The South China Sea remains a flashpoint in regional geopolitics, involving overlapping claims from several Southeast Asian nations and growing concerns from external powers like the United States, which has called for freedom of navigation and adherence to international law.

As tensions escalate, regional observers warn that increased militarization and brinkmanship risk destabilizing a vital maritime corridor through which more than $3 trillion in trade passes annually.