Scarborough Shoal

Scarborough Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc or Panatag, is currently a focal point of tension between the Philippines and China due to competing territorial claims. The Philippine government has delegated security operations at the shoal to the Philippine Coast Guard to avoid escalating tensions with China while maintaining its commitment to defending its maritime rights under international law. Recent incidents include aggressive maneuvers by Chinese vessels and aircraft, prompting the United States to conduct freedom of navigation patrols in the area to support Manila's efforts to uphold international law.