By Aritra Banerjee
A High-Stakes Standoff
In a dramatic standoff in the South China Sea, Filipino soldiers recently repelled Chinese coast guard personnel armed with swords, spears, and knives using only their bare hands. Described by the Philippines’ top military commander as “piracy,” this clash marks a significant escalation in the ongoing territorial dispute between the two nations.
A Pattern of Aggression
China’s broader strategy of aggression in the South China Sea is evident in numerous incidents. Recently, the Philippine Armed Forces released shocking footage showing Chinese Coast Guard boats intercepting a resupply airdrop intended for Philippine Marines stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded World War II-era vessel. Chinese personnel, armed with knives and axes, seized and discarded essential supplies, including food and medicine.
This harassment is not new. On May 19, the Chinese Coast Guard interfered with Philippine service members being medically evacuated and unlawfully seized airdropped provisions. Again, on June 17, China attempted to block the lawful delivery of humanitarian supplies to service members at the Second Thomas Shoal. These actions highlight China’s increasing belligerence, leading to growing tensions and international condemnation. The Philippine Armed Forces posted video evidence on social media, rallying regional and global support against China’s actions.
Dangerous Escalation
The recent skirmish represents a new level of aggression in the South China Sea. General Romeo Brawner reported that Filipino soldiers were confronted by Chinese Coast Guard personnel wielding knives, spears, and bolos—a type of Filipino sword—during the incident. Brawner described these actions as “piracy,” noting that Chinese personnel have no proper or legal authority to hijack Philippine operations within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Historical Context and Territorial Claims
The confrontation occurred near the Second Thomas Shoal, a key location in the South China Sea dispute. The shoal is home to the BRP Sierra Madre, deliberately grounded to assert Manila’s territorial claim. Filipino soldiers stationed there require regular supply missions, which China routinely attempts to block.
The South China Sea, a major shipping route with rich fishing grounds and potential natural resource reserves has long been a flashpoint for territorial disputes involving China and several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines.
China’s Grey Zone Tactics
China’s Maritime Militia, known as the People’s Armed Forces Maritime Militia (PAFMM), is a unique component of the country’s naval strategy. These ostensibly civilian fishing vessels are often equipped and manned for paramilitary operations, operating alongside the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG).
Recent developments, such as the collision between a Philippine supply ship and a Chinese vessel near the Second Thomas Shoal and the activities of the research ship Haiyang Dizhi 4 Hao in the Philippines’ EEZ, have intensified international focus on the South China Sea. Analysts warn that choking off supplies to the outpost could allow Beijing to gain complete control over the area.
Previous Instances of Beijing’s Hybrid Warfare
China’s use of its maritime militia and grey zone tactics has been observed in several incidents across the region:
- Xiang Yang Hong 06 (2019-2020): Conducted extensive surveys in the Indian Ocean, deploying advanced underwater gliders and profiling floats.
- Hai Yang Shi You 760 (2023): Mapped the ocean bed within Bangladesh’s EEZ, collecting valuable data for the PLA.
- Shiyan 06 (October 2023): Conducted surveys along Sri Lanka’s west coast, advancing China’s strategic interests in the Indian Ocean.
Diplomatic Implications
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos warned that the death of a Filipino citizen due to China’s actions would be seen as close to “an act of war.” However, General Brawner emphasised that the Philippines does not seek to escalate the situation into a full-scale conflict. The Philippines has demanded that China return the seized equipment and highlighted Beijing’s antagonistic actions.
International Reactions
The United States, a key ally of the Philippines, has condemned China’s actions. U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated Washington’s “ironclad commitment” to the 1951 mutual defence treaty with the Philippines. Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured his Philippine counterpart of U.S. support, emphasising that China’s actions undermine regional peace and stability.
A Situation in Flux
The South China Sea remains a flashpoint for international tension. As China continues to assert its claims and test the resolve of the Philippines and its allies, the potential for further escalations looms. The international community watches closely, aware that any misstep could have far-reaching regional and global security consequences.
China’s aggressive behaviour and grey zone operations in the South China Sea pose significant threats to regional stability and international maritime law. The use of civilian vessels for military purposes, coupled with aggressive tactics, undermines the sovereignty of other nations and disrupts international trade. The international community must enhance maritime cooperation, promote transparency, and remain vigilant to counter Beijing’s aggressive tactics.
Aritra Banerjee is the co-author of ‘The Indian Navy @75: Reminiscing The Voyage’. Views expressed are personal.
