Manila has filed a formal diplomatic protest against Beijing’s plan to set up a “national nature reserve” at Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, saying the move violates Philippine sovereignty and threatens local livelihoods. The contested reef lies well within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone but has been under de-facto Chinese control since 2012.
What China Announced
Earlier this month, China’s State Council approved the creation of a marine nature reserve at Scarborough Shoal — called Huangyan Dao by Beijing — citing the need to conserve coral reefs and stabilise fragile ecosystems. Chinese officials framed the move as part of an environmental agenda rather than a territorial one.
Why the Philippines Is Protesting
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs called the plan “illegal and illegitimate,” arguing it infringes on Manila’s rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and a 2016 arbitration ruling that rejected most of China’s expansive South China Sea claims. Philippine officials say the proposed reserve could be used to restrict Filipino fishermen from an area they have long depended on.
Impact on Local Fishermen
Scarborough Shoal’s lagoon and surrounding waters are among the richest fishing grounds in the region. Since Chinese coastguard vessels began controlling access a decade ago, Filipino fishermen have reported harassment and declining catches. They now fear a formal reserve will make access even more difficult.
China’s Position
Beijing insists Scarborough Shoal is part of its “inherent territory” and says establishing a reserve is a sovereign right. State media have described Philippine criticism as “provocative” and claim the project will benefit the entire region by safeguarding marine biodiversity.
Legal and Strategic Context
Scarborough Shoal sits about 200 kilometres from the Philippine coast but more than 800 kilometres from China’s Hainan Island. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled China had no legal basis for its “nine-dash line” claims over most of the South China Sea, including features like Scarborough Shoal. China has refused to recognise the ruling.
Wider Geopolitical Repercussions
The dispute comes as Manila strengthens security ties with the United States, Japan and Australia. Analysts say a “nature reserve” could serve not only conservation goals but also as a soft way of consolidating control in contested waters — a tactic known as “grey-zone” activity.
Conclusion
Beijing’s plan to declare Scarborough Shoal a nature reserve has sparked new friction with Manila and could intensify international scrutiny of China’s activities in the South China Sea. For the Philippines, the move threatens both national sovereignty and the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen; for China, it is presented as environmental stewardship but also strengthens its hand over a strategically located reef.
