China deployed a floating research platform at Scarborough Shoal in late May, drawing immediate protests from the Philippines. The platform, about 6x6 meters and believed to support marine research, was considered illegal by Philippine authorities.
This move stoked existing tensions as the area remains a flashpoint between the two nations. Scarborough Shoal, 120 nautical miles from Luzon, is claimed by both China and the Philippines. China's control of the shoal since 2012 has led to blockages of Filipino fishermen and increasing confrontations.
The platform's removal on June 16, confirmed by Philippine officials the following day, occurred shortly before the 10th anniversary of the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling that dismissed most of China's claims in the region-a ruling Beijing does not acknowledge. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is actively documenting Chinese incursions to gather international support, bolstered by a mutual defense treaty with the US.