China’s claim of seizing Sandy Cay in the West Philippine Sea sparks sharp rebuttal from the National Maritime Council (NMC). On Saturday, the NMC slammed Beijing’s assertion as a blatant disinformation campaign designed to mislead the international community about its unlawful actions in the contested waters.
Using state-controlled media, China spins a narrative to confuse not only the global audience but also its own citizens. The NMC condemned this tactic, pointing to China’s so-called “seizure” of Pag-asa Cay 2—better known locally as Sandy Cay—as a sinister example. China showcased its flag and staged waste collection activities on the cay, attempting to create the illusion of effective control. But the NMC called out this move as nothing more than a manufactured charade, not backed by reality.
Beyond political posturing, the NMC also raised alarms over serious environmental damage. The persistent presence of Chinese vessels swarming around Pag-asa Island and its nearby cays has led to significant degradation. This includes the fallout from China’s massive artificial island construction on Zamora Reef (also called Subi Reef), which lies within Philippine territorial waters.
The Philippines urges China to honor international law—most notably the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the landmark 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. The NMC also called for strict implementation of the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, hoping to curb tensions and foster respect among nations.
Despite provocations, the Philippine government remains committed to peaceful dialogue and lawful navigation in the West Philippine Sea, safeguarding its rights under international maritime law.
Earlier this week, the Philippine Navy dismissed China’s Sandy Cay occupation claim as a distraction. Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad denounced the statement as an attempt to divert public scrutiny amid swirling rumors of Chinese espionage and an alleged troll farm linked to the Chinese Embassy in Manila.
In a bold counter, Philippine authorities recently raised the country’s flag on Sandy Cay, reaffirming sovereignty over the strategic islet. Located just two nautical miles from Pag-asa Island, Sandy Cay remains firmly under Philippine jurisdiction—regardless of Beijing’s provocations.