Philippines to boost military presence in South China Sea

A satellite image of a land formation at Eldad Reef in the Spratly Islands. The Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs said it was concerned over China’s alleged reclamation activities. - AFP

MANILA (The Straits Times/Asia News Network): The Philippines is set to increase its military presence on the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea following a report on Beijing’s alleged construction activities on four unoccupied land features in the area, including two being claimed by Manila.

The Philippines’ Department of Defence (DND) on Thursday (Dec 22) ordered the armed forces to “strengthen the country’s presence in the West Philippine Sea” after monitoring what it described as “Chinese activities” close to Thitu Island in the Spratlys. The DND did not give specifics.