The Philippines has shot down China’s recent accusation of instigating tensions in the West Philippine Sea, citing instead the latter’s history of encroachment on Philippine territory. Commodore Jay Tarriela, the Philippine Coast Guard’s spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, criticized China’s takeover of Panganiban (Mischief) Reef, which is part of the municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan, and Zamora (Subi) Reef, both located in the WPS. “First, China occupied Panganiban Reef in 1995, claiming it would serve only as a fishermen’s shelter, even though it is situated within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. Nearly two decades later, they transformed this shelter into a heavily fortified military base, complete with defense capabilities, a naval base and an airfield,” Tarriela posted on his X account on March 30.

Macairan, E. (2025, March 31). Coast Guard rescues 12 crewmen from burning vessel. The Philippine Star, p. 12.