Philippine Coast Guard "Commissions" New Command Center in the Spratly Islands

When AFP journalists flew to the new command center on Thitu Island, they witnessed multiple Chinese coast guard vessels patrolling the nearby waters, and Chinese ships issued radio warnings to the aircraft carrying the journalists.

Despite international arbitration ruling it "without legal basis," China continues to claim sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea.

Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Ronnie Gil Gavan told reporters today after the "commissioning" ceremony that Thitu Island will now be stationed by a commodore-level commander, along with a permanently stationed vessel, more response boats, and an undisclosed number of experts.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela pointed out that the remote substations on Kota Island and Parola Island will also be upgraded to official stations.

Thitu Island currently has about 400 Filipino residents, mostly fishermen and their families, while China accuses these residents of illegal occupation.

The Philippines stated last month that it will rename over 100 reefs and features in the Spratly Islands. China subsequently accused Manila of violating international law and threatened to take measures to safeguard its territorial claims. (Compiled by: Liu Shu-qin) 1150409