South China Sea: Chinese coastguard ‘normalises’ safety training at contested Scarborough Shoal

The South China Sea is a highly contested region, with multiple countries claiming sovereignty over various areas. One of the most disputed areas is Scarborough Shoal, a shoal located near the Philippines. Recently, the Chinese coastguard has been conducting safety training exercises in the area, which has raised concerns among neighboring countries.

The Chinese coastguard has been accused of harassing and blocking Philippine vessels in the area, including a recent incident where water cannons were fired at two Philippine patrol vessels. The Philippines has condemned China's actions, calling them "illegal and irresponsible" and accusing China of violating its sovereignty.

The situation in the South China Sea is increasingly tense, with the frequency of skirmishes between the Philippines and China on the rise. The United States has warned that it is obligated to defend the Philippines, a longtime treaty ally, if Filipino forces come under attack.

The Scarborough Shoal is a key area of contention, with China insisting on its sovereignty over the region. The Philippines, on the other hand, claims the shoal is part of its Exclusive Economic Zone. The dispute has sparked fears of an armed confrontation between China and the Philippines, which could have far-reaching consequences for the region.

Despite the tensions, the Philippine coastguard has vowed to continue patrolling the area, ensuring the safety of Filipino fishermen and upholding the country's rights in the region. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation in the coming days