PH, China discuss ways to manage tensions in Escoda Shoal

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, Philippine News Agency

WITHIN PH EEZ. The Philippines and China exchange views on managing the situation in the West Philippine Sea, including the Escoda Shoal which is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, during the 10th BCM meeting in Beijing on Wednesday (Sept. 11, 2024). During the meeting, the two sides agreed to continue discussions on areas of cooperation, especially on hotline mechanisms, coast guard cooperation, and marine scientific and technological cooperation. (Photo courtesy of DFA via PNA)

MANILA – The Philippine and Chinese governments had “frank and candid” talks on Escoda Shoal (Sabina Shoal), the latest point of contention between the two states as Manila continued to assert that it is part of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

During the 10th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) meeting on the South China Sea on Sept. 11 in Beijing, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said the Philippines has jurisdiction over the shoal even as Beijing demands Manila to leave the feature.

“Emphasizing that Escoda Shoal is within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Philippines, Undersecretary Lazaro reaffirmed the consistent position of the Philippines and explored ways to lower the tension in the area,” Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said.

Lazaro co-chaired the BCM in Beijing with her Chinese counterpart, Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong.

During the meeting, the two sides agreed to continue discussions on areas of cooperation, especially on hotline mechanisms, coast guard cooperation, and marine scientific and technological cooperation.

“Both sides also reaffirmed the BCM as a forum for promoting maritime dialogue and enhancing bilateral cooperation while agreeing to continue engagement through diplomatic channels,” Daza added.

The last BCM, which led to a common Understanding of the Management of the Situation on the Ayungin Shoal, was held in Manila in July 2024.

The DFA has yet to respond when asked whether a similar arrangement for the Escoda Shoal was proposed or specifically discussed in the latest meeting.

China increased its presence in the Escoda Shoal,
some 70 nautical miles away from mainland Palawan province, when the Philippines decided to station BRP Teresa Magbanua there after receiving a report that the Chinese were conducting unauthorized marine research in the area.

On Aug. 31, the same ship was rammed unprovoked multiple times by a Chinese Coast Guard vessel after it lifted its anchor to move around the shoal, damaging its bridge wing.