China Proposes Joint Fishing Zone at Scarborough Shoal; Philippine Defense Chief Questions Motives: 'Who Are They Trying to Fool?'

(CNA, Manila, July 6) Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian recently proposed restoring a joint fishing zone between China and the Philippines at Scarborough Shoal to ease tensions in the South China Sea. In response, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro emphasized that Philippine fishing rights are protected by the South China Sea arbitration ruling, and questioned China's motives.

Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian stated at an event celebrating the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China in Makati City that he had proposed to the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs to establish a joint fishing zone in the waters of Scarborough Shoal (known as Panatag Shoal in Taiwan) following the pattern of about 10 years ago.

He pointed out that in earlier years, fishermen from both countries worked together in the waters around Scarborough Shoal. Since it was possible in the past, he believes there should be room to explore cooperation again now that the communication mechanisms between the two sides are more mature.

In response, Teodoro told reporters today at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center that the South China Sea arbitration ruling has already confirmed the Philippines' fishing rights at Scarborough Shoal, and China's proposal for joint fishing at this time is puzzling.

He said, "The ruling is very clear. Scarborough Shoal is a common traditional fishing ground within the Philippine exclusive economic zone. Who are they trying to fool?"

Teodoro criticized China for continuously taking actions in the "West Philippine Sea" in recent years that violate international law, not only targeting the Philippines but also involving other countries such as Japan and India. He stated that the international community should not easily believe Beijing's statements.

"West Philippine Sea" is the official term used by the Philippines for its claimed waters in the South China Sea, extending 200 nautical miles from its baseline into the exclusive economic zone.

Teodoro added that China has long used negotiations as a delaying tactic, attempting to wear down the other party. "If China claims it can wait for a thousand years, then the Philippines must also be patient, because many countries support us."

In January 2013, the Philippine government unilaterally submitted the South China Sea dispute to the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague for arbitration. On July 12, 2016, the arbitral tribunal ruled that China's nine-dash line has no legal effect under international law, and the waters around Scarborough Shoal are a traditional common fishing ground for fishermen from the Philippines, China, Vietnam, and other countries.

The South China Sea arbitration ruling will mark its 10th anniversary on July 12 this year. Teodoro called on the Filipino people to unite in defending their rights in the "West Philippine Sea" and not to be influenced by external propaganda.

Teodoro has consistently taken a tough stance on China regarding national security issues. In June, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Teodoro of damaging China's legitimate interests and undermining China-Philippines relations, announcing sanctions against him and his family, including prohibiting entry into Hong Kong, Macau, and other parts of China, and forbidding organizations and individuals within China from conducting transactions and cooperation with them. (Editor: Wei Shu) 0706115