China Takes Control of Vietnamese Island in South China Sea

Chinese forces have taken control of the Sandy Cay reef, which is part of the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, located just a few kilometres from the Philippine military island of Titu. This information comes from the Financial Times, citing the Chinese television channel CCTV.

The report states that Chinese coast guard officers raised the flag of the People’s Republic of China on the reef to assert their territorial rights and document what they claim to be illegal activities by the Philippine side. According to Chinese media, China has gained control over the waters surrounding Sandy Cay this month and confirmed its jurisdiction.

Although the reef itself is just over 200 square metres in size, its importance to China is significant: international norms allow the country to claim the adjacent maritime areas. Nearby, approximately 22 km away, is Titu Island, where the Philippines has established a base to monitor Chinese vessel activities.

Currently, there is no evidence of a permanent Chinese presence on Sandy Cay. A representative of the Philippine Coast Guard stated that after the flag was raised, Chinese ships left the reef. However, according to him, Beijing’s declaration of sovereignty could signal an increased pressure on Pagasa Island – the name given to Titu by the Philippines.