On September 10, 2025, China unveiled plans to establish the Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve on Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea – an action which has further escalated regional tensions, particularly with regards to claims made by Philippines against this piece of real estate.
Scarborough Shoal Is of Strategic Significance
Scarborough Shoal, commonly referred to in China and the Philippines as Huangyan Island or Bajo de Masinloc respectively, lies approximately 200 kilometers off of Philippine coast. This vital fishing ground and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) lie within Philippine jurisdiction. Due to its strategic position within South China Sea territorial disputes involving multiple nations including Vietnam, Malaysia Brunei Taiwan this area plays an essential role for regional shipping lanes as well as providing potentially abundant natural resources.
China’s Environmental Justification
China’s State Council stated that the creation of a nature reserve aims to “preserve the diversity, stability, and sustainability of its natural ecosystem” of Shoal Shoal Atoll. The reserve will cover an area of 3,523.67 hectares on the northeastern side of Atoll which is famous for its coral reefs and marine biodiversity; details regarding boundaries and management plans should be released shortly by National Forestry and Grassland Administration.
Philippine Response and Diplomatic Protest
Philippines officials responded swiftly and strongly against China’s action, calling it an invasion of their sovereignty and violation of international law. Their Department of Foreign Affairs issued a diplomatic protest letter, demanding China respect Philippine jurisdiction over Bajo de Masinloc and withdraw the nature reserve designation. Philippine officials claim China’s action represents a strategic maneuver intended to gain control of Bajo de Masinloc and further its expansive claims in the South China Sea.
International Reactions and Legal Context
Establishment of the nature reserve comes amidst ongoing disputes over territorial claims in the South China Sea. An international arbitration court found in 2016 that China’s extensive claims – known as the “nine-dash line” – lacked legal basis under international law; yet China continues to press their claims through various methods, including recent creation of nature reserve.
The United States, a treaty ally of the Philippines, has reiterated its pledge to defend Philippine forces, ships and aircraft if there is an attack in the South China Sea. Furthermore, they have voiced concern over China’s actions and demand adherence to international law as well as respect for rights of other nations in the region.
Broader Implications
China’s establishment of Scarborough Shoal as a nature reserve underscores the complex relationship between environmental initiatives and geopolitical strategies in the South China Sea. China frames their move as protecting marine biodiversity; critics see it as an attempt by them to assert territorial claims or limit access for other nations. Philippine resistance highlights ongoing tensions and the difficulty associated with reconciling environmental conservation with national sovereignty and regional stability.
As events unfold, the international community remains vigilant regarding China’s actions at Scarborough Shoal and their possible effects on regional security and environmental governance.