South China Sea: BBC on board Philippine ship hit by Chinese water cannons
BBC NewsMay 05
Philippines Pledges Not to Raise Tensions in South China Sea Amid Drills
Image copyright:Â Ezra Acayan/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Philippine Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told reporters on Monday that his country has no desire to raise tensions in the South China Sea, adding that there are no plans to install water cannons on vessels or to use any offensive weapons in the area.
This comes as Manila summoned the Chinese envoy last week after Chinese vessels used water cannons against two Philippine vessels near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, damaging them.
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
Though China has consistently harassed Philippine vessels, Manila will not follow suit and go down that dangerous path, because the mission of its forces is to lower tensions in the South China Sea. Beijing must abide by international rules and stop violating Philippine sovereign rights.
Pro-China narrative
China is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea. However, it seems that the Philippines is taking advantage of China's tolerance and goodwill by underestimating its ability to protect its territory and sovereignty. Manila is contributing to the escalation of the South China Sea conflict with the help of foreign countries.