The political landscape in Taiwan is heating up as the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) accuses the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration of failing to uphold Taiwan’s territorial claims in the South China Sea. This criticism comes in the wake of the Philippines’ recent actions to delimit a disputed shoal, known as Scarborough Shoal.
The KMT’s culture and communications committee director, Chen I-hsin, has been vocal about the government’s perceived inaction. He stated, “The government speaks loudly when confronting mainland China, but falls silent when Japan or the Philippines challenges Taiwan’s claims.” This statement highlights the KMT’s concern over the DPP’s approach to territorial disputes.
Philippines’ Move to Delimit Scarborough Shoal
Last week, the Philippines filed its official nautical chart for Scarborough Shoal with the United Nations. In this chart, the Philippines defines its claims to the shoal’s “territorial sea baseline,” along with the outer limits of its 12-nautical-mile territorial sea and 24-nautical-mile contiguous zone. Scarborough Shoal, known as Huangyan Island in mainland China and Minzhu Reef in Taiwan, is a contentious area claimed by all three nations.
China’s Military Response
In response to these developments, China conducted joint air and naval combat drills around Scarborough Shoal. The People’s Liberation Army Southern Theater Command described these drills as a necessary response to actions by “certain countries” that are undermining regional peace and stability. While China did not name any specific countries, the drills are seen as a direct response to the Philippines’ actions.
The Chinese military emphasized that the drills were aimed at testing and improving the combat readiness of its forces to defend national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights. Additionally, China issued a new policy for the administration of the Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve, established in, banning unauthorized fishing, mining, coral or giant clam extraction, and other harmful activities.
The China Coast Guard has been tasked with setting up regular patrols around the reserve to deal with any illegal activities. This move underscores China’s determination to enforce its claims in the region.
The Political Fallout in Taiwan
The KMT’s accusations against the DPP administration highlight the political tensions within Taiwan. The opposition party argues that the government’s muted response to the Philippines’ actions is a failure to defend Taiwan’s territorial integrity. This criticism comes at a time when Taiwan is navigating complex geopolitical dynamics in the South China Sea.
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely. The Philippines’ move to delimit Scarborough Shoal and China’s military response add layers of complexity to an already volatile region. The political fallout in Taiwan further complicates the scenario, with the KMT calling for a stronger stance from the DPP administration.
