US backs PHL rejection of China's Scarborough Shoal reserve plan

The US strongly supports the Philippines in rejecting China's plan to declare Scarborough Shoal a "national nature reserve," calling it a coercive and unlawful move that threatens regional stability.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that China's declaration is a coercive attempt to advance its territorial claims in the South China Sea at the expense of its neighbors.

He highlighted that the plan negatively impacts Filipino fishermen who depend on Scarborough Shoal for their livelihood.

Earlier this week, China's State Council announced plans to establish the reserve at Scarborough Shoal, saying it is "an important measure for maintaining the diversity, stability, and sustainability of the natural ecosystem of Huangyan Island."

The DFA protested what it called "an illegitimate and unlawful action by China."

The US urged China to respect the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling, which declared China's actions in barring Filipinos from fishing at the shoal as unlawful.

Washington affirmed its commitment to supporting its treaty ally, the Philippines, in defending international law and opposing destabilizing activities in the South China Sea.