Chinese coast guard uses water cannon on Philippine boat as tensions rise near Second Thomas Shoal
FOX NewsMAR 2024
Philippines Accuses PRC of Damaging Vessel in South China Sea
story
Image copyright: Ezra Acayan/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
Since Beijing captured the Scarborough Shoal more than a decade ago, its coast guard vessels have harassed Philippine vessels and blocked access to fishing operations. Because these moves are part of its broader, aggressive campaign in the South China Sea, it's no coincidence that its neighbors are now pursuing deeper ties with the West.
Pro-China narrative
China is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea. However, it seems that the Philippines 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.
Metaculus Prediction
There's an 18% chance that armed conflict between the Philippines and the People's Republic of China (PRC) will cause at least 100 deaths before 2050, according to the Metaculus prediction community.
