Reported 8 months ago
The Philippines has formally submitted an application to the United Nations to extend its continental shelf boundaries in the South China Sea, asserting rights to its exclusive economic zone. This move comes amidst escalating disputes with China, which lays claim to about 90% of the South China Sea, overlapping with claims by Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and Taiwan. The Hague International Tribunal ruled against China's historical claims in 2016, but China rejected the decision. The Philippines refers to its EEZ as the 'West Philippine Sea' and has conducted extensive scientific research before submitting this application. China recently enacted a new law allowing its coast guard to detain foreigners in disputed waters, leading to global condemnation, including from the G7. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has authorized the extension of the continental shelf boundaries to reinforce the country's rights in the area.
Source: YAHOO