China Launches 3 Huangyan Dao Actions After Philippines Baseline Claim
Updated
Updated · Global Times · Aug 2
China Launches 3 Huangyan Dao Actions After Philippines Baseline Claim
3 articles · Updated · Global Times · Aug 2
Summary
August 1 brought three coordinated moves around Huangyan Dao: a PLA naval-air exercise, China Coast Guard law-enforcement drills, and new management rules for a national nature reserve.
The response followed Manila's announcement of territorial sea baselines around Huangyan Dao, which China's Foreign Ministry on July 31 called illegal, null and void, and a grave infringement of sovereignty.
PLA Southern Theater Command said the exercise covered reconnaissance, deterrence patrols, maritime and air control, and joint strikes in waters and airspace around the shoal.
China Coast Guard drills focused on visit-board-search-seizure, blocking forced entry and towing vessels away, while the reserve measures set routine patrols and banned destructive activities including illegal fishing and mining.
Beijing cast the package as both a sovereignty defense and environmental governance step, while warning the Philippines and outside powers against further South China Sea provocations.