China plans construction activities in Scarborough Shoal — Golez

From GMA News (Jun 23): China plans construction activities in Scarborough Shoal — Golez

China reportedly plans to build several structures on Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in preparation for its eventual occupation of the a part of the Philippine territory, former national security adviser Roilo Golez said Thursday.

In a press conference, Golez showed a map of Panatag Shoal with markings indicating China’s construction plans for a lagoon as big as Quezon City in the area.

Pointing at the map, the former Parañaque lawmaker said China plans to build a port and 3,000-meter long runway for the northern portion of the lagoon.

On the eastern side, meanwhile, will rise a “tropical and holiday area” eyed to attract tourists.

Government buildings and a hotel will be constructed at the southern portion of the lagoon while the mouth of the shoal is eyed as an entryway for Chinese ships.

Golez said he obtained the map from reliable sources.

The former lawmaker sounded the alarm on Beijing’s purported plans to build structures in Panatag Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, amid the ongoing maritime row between the Philippines and China over the West Philippine Sea.

“This will be a huge military base and it’s so close to the Philippines. It’s a dagger that will be aiming at our vital economic installation. It will be a clear threat to us and to the region, Golez said.

China already occupies Panganiban (Mischief) Reef, which now features several structures and an airstrip.

An airstrip has already been constructed by Beijing on Fiery Cross Reef, also known as Kagitingan Reef.

Last April, China began operations of a lighthouse in Subi Reef, which is only 26 kilometers southwest of Pag-asa Island.

The three reefs where Beijing has built structures are part of the Philippines’ 200-mile exclusive economic zone.

Citing statements made by senior defense officials during two Senate hearings on the Scarborough Shoal dispute in 2013 and 2015, Senator Antonio Trillanes IV said last May that the area remains a part of the Philippines even if there is a prevailing perception that it has been seized by Beijing.

The Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration is expected to issue a ruling soon on the arbitration case filed by the Philippines against China.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/571090/news/world/china-plans-construction-activities-in-scarborough-shoal-golez