Heading into the new year, Philippines-China relations have been marked by increasing tension, with China intensifying its aggressive actions targeting Philippine-claimed reefs, including Bajo de Masinloc (BDM) or Scarborough Shoal, which is 124 nautical miles west of Zambales and within the Philippines’ 300 nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Located at the center of the South China Sea, control of Bajo de Masinloc would grant China greater access to Luzon Island, reinforcing a “strategic triangle” that links the shoal with Woody Island and the Spratlys — enhancing its ability to control the South China Sea. Additionally, the shoal is abundant in fishery resources and is the source of livelihood for Filipino fisherfolk.

Salvador, A. M. O. (2025, February 11). The 2016 arbitral ruling: Why institutions and resolve matter. BusinessWorld, p. S1/7.