China Steps Up South China Sea Patrols Amid Rising Tensions

China carried out naval and aerial patrols around Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Saturday, according to the Southern Theatre Command.

Scarborough Shoal lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, though China also asserts sovereignty over the area.

The Philippine embassy in Beijing has not yet issued a response.

China said it has intensified combat readiness patrols in the region since January, describing the move as a firm response to what it called “provocative infringements” by certain regional countries.

Earlier this week, the Philippines and the United States conducted joint military exercises near Scarborough Shoal—the 11th such drill since November 2023—according to the Philippine armed forces