PH files diplomatic protest over floating structure in Scarborough Shoal

Metro Manila, Philippines –  The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has filed a diplomatic protest and issued several demarches against China over the presence of a floating structure in Scarborough Shoal, locally known as Bajo de Masinloc. 

The move comes after the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) confirmed reports by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) regarding the presence of a platform inside the shoal.

In a statement Tuesday, June 9, the DFA said it had already undertaken diplomatic action concerning the structure.

“The DFA has undertaken the appropriate diplomatic action, such as several demarches and the issuance of a formal protest, against the structure in Bajo de Masinloc reported by the AFP and the PCG,” the department said.

“We are unable to discuss the specific contents of the demarches and the diplomatic protest any further as these are confidential communications,” it added.

Earlier, the NTF-WPS said aerial surveillance conducted by multiple government agencies confirmed the presence of a 6-by-6-meter floating structure equipped with what appears to be an antenna.

Latest imagery obtained by the military also showed personnel on top of the platform, while coast guard monitoring indicated that the structure remains inside the shoal with individuals observed onboard.

The task force said interagency efforts are ongoing to determine the nature, purpose and implications of the installation.

“The NTF-WPS is closely coordinating with relevant government agencies to monitor developments and further assess the nature, purpose, and implications of the installation and related activities within the shoal,” it said.

“Inter-agency efforts are ongoing to establish a complete and accurate picture of the situation.”

The task force described the structure’s presence as illegal and said the government would continue to take appropriate measures to protect the country’s rights and interests.

“The protection of Philippine sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction remains a paramount consideration,” the NTF-WPS said.

“The Philippine Government will continue to take appropriate actions consistent with international law and in defense of the country’s national interests.”

The task force also reiterated Manila’s position that Bajo de Masinloc forms part of the Philippines’ maritime zones under international law and cited the 2016 Arbitral Award and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).