This news has attracted widespread attention in the Philippines in recent days. According to the Philippine side, they have decided to repair the wrecked ship known as the "Sierra Madre" on Second Thomas Shoal and build a new high-angle house next to it. The move was seen as a provocation against China and a sign of the Philippine side's intention to engage in constant confrontation.
The specific method of repairing the wrecked ship "Sierra Madre" is still inconclusive. Due to the geographical constraints of Second Thomas Reef, it is not practical to build a high horn house directly on the shallows. As a result, the Philippines may choose to build stilt houses on the wrecked ship to protect the servicemen from holding out after the ship's hull disintegrates and collapses. However, due to the interception by the Chinese coast guard, it is very difficult for the Philippines to transport construction materials to Ren'ai Jiao. The steel plates that were previously transported have not been welded, indicating the difficulty of construction. The cost of the restoration set aside by the Philippines has also not been disclosed, suggesting that they have concerns about the matter.
The Philippines has long been considered a pawn of the United States in the South China Sea, and they continue to engage in provocative behavior against China and are supported by the United States. In addition to the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, and India are also interested in supporting the Philippines. India sent a ship into the Philippines and said it could protect Philippine "territorial waters" from infringement at a critical moment. These actions demonstrate the Philippines' assertiveness in the international arena and add uncertainty to tensions in the South China Sea.
Philippines** reports show that Chinese fishing boats are still staying in the lagoon of Ren'ai Jiao, only about 2 kilometers away from the Sierra Madre. In addition, four Chinese fishing boats and one China Coast Guard enforcement vessel are resting or manning around Second Thomas Shoal. The Philippines believes that these signs indicate that China is likely to reclaim the islands at Second Thomas Shoal. If China does carry out this action, the Philippines will not be able to do anything about it. The Philippines is alert to limited assistance from the United States and its supporters, while China can use its reclamation capabilities to counter Philippine provocations.
China's continued island infrastructure construction in the South China Sea is a response to the Philippines' provocative actions. The size and construction of these islands will be adjusted according to the actual situation and needs. The Philippines is alert to China's ability to reclaim islands, and the Chinese and law enforcement vessels on the reef have demonstrated China's control over the area. If China succeeds in reclaiming the islands, the Philippines will bow to Chinese pressure. The Philippines has few other means to exert influence on China.
The news sparked a lot of discussion. The provocative actions of the Philippine side have demonstrated their resolve in the South China Sea region and are supported by the United States and other countries. However, the Philippines' operations face a number of challenges, including difficulties in repairing broken ships and transporting construction supplies. At the same time, China continues to reclaim islands in the South China Sea, demonstrating its control. The Philippines has few viable countermeasures in the face of China's retaliation. The Philippines must recognize that provoking China will only put itself in a passive position, and that working with China and resolving disputes through diplomatic means is the long-term solution. After all, regional stability and prosperity can only be achieved through peaceful cooperation.