Philippine President Voices Worry Over a Swarm of Chinese Fishing Boats
Shocking maritime traffic has just gotten a new headline in Manila, as President Rodrigo Duterte told China’s ambassador that the crowded vessels at Whitsun Reef have raised a legit cause for alarm. The boats are said to be part of a “maritime militia” and number more than 200—more than you’d typically find in a Caribbean fishing fleet in one day.
What’s the Buzz About?
- The sheltering boats are parked inside Manila’s 200‑mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on the Whitsun Reef.
- After a meeting with Ambassador Huang Xilian, Duterte reminded China that the Philippines won a landmark arbitration case in 2016 affirming its maritime rights.
- Vietnam is stepping in, calling the vessels a violation of its sovereignty and demanding China stop the over‑the‑top presence.
- Despite the claims, China’s embassy in Manila neutrally said the boats were “fishing vessels taking refuge from rough seas,” while a Philippine spokesperson denied the militia is aboard.
Regional Drama in the South China Sea
The South China Sea is a multi‑claim battleground overseen by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, China, and Vietnam—all vying for control of the economic highway that carries approximately US$3.4 trillion in trade each year.
Duterte’s stance has always been a bit of a paradox. He’s a vocal admirer of Beijing but often criticizes the US for stirring up conflicts in the region. In this recent sail‑card, he puts the Philippines firmly in line with the 2016 arbitration ruling.
Vietnam’s Call to Action
Vietnam’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Le Thi Thu Hang, called out China for “infringing on our sovereignty” by parking these vessels at Da Ba Dau (Hanoi’s name for Whitsun Reef). She also noted that Vietnamese coastguard vessels arrived nearby—“exercising their duties just as the law says.”
“Vietnam requests that China stop this violation and respect our sovereignty,” Ms. Hang told a briefing.
– —Le Thi Thu Hang, Vietnam Foreign Ministry
Who’s Watching?
- Ship tracking data published by Marine Traffic shows a Vietnamese coastguard boat anchored near the disputed area.
- Local news outlets keep believers abreast of the latest developments—whether it’s a fishing trip or a covert maritime militia launch.
In the spirit of keeping you in the loop, the Philippine military clarity remains that the ships are not militia—though whether they are indeed fishing or simply seeking shelter remains a debate that will likely keep you checking your own YouTube for the next clip on maritime protests.
