China’s Coast Guard: A Tale of Two Seas in the Indo-Pacific

The recent activities of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) in the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of South Korea and the Philippines highlight a troubling pattern of Chinese assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific. However, a closer look reveals some key differences in China’s tactics between these two regions.

Similarities:

• Presence and Harassment: Both in the South China Sea (SCS) and the Sea of Japan, the CCG employs a strategy of frequent patrols and maneuvers within the EEZs of other countries. This persistent presence aims to intimidate and disrupt fishing and resource exploration activities.
• Disregard for International Law: China disregards the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which grants coastal nations exclusive rights to resources within their EEZs. Both in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and the Sea of Japan, China ignores these rights.

Differences:

• Intensity of Action: China’s actions in the WPS seem more aggressive. In the WPS, the CCG has engaged in ramming incidents with Filipino fishing vessels, deploying maritime militia vessels, and even occupying features well within the Philippines’ EEZ. In contrast, interactions with South Korea appear less confrontational, focusing on maneuvers and harassing South Korean fishing vessels.
• Historical Context: China has a long-standing territorial dispute with the Philippines over the SCS, which includes the WPS. This fuels tensions and motivates a more forceful approach by the CCG. The dispute with South Korea is more recent and confined to a smaller area.

Reasons for the Difference:

• Strength of Response: South Korea has a stronger military than the Philippines and a closer alliance with the United States. This likely deters China from taking overly aggressive actions in the Sea of Japan.
• International Scrutiny: The SCS dispute is a major flashpoint in the region and receives significant international attention. China may be more cautious about excessively provocative actions in the WPS due to the potential for international condemnation.

What this Means for the Philippines:

The situation in the WPS remains a significant concern. The Philippines needs to:

• Strengthen its own maritime capabilities. This includes building a more robust coast guard and navy.
• Deepen its alliance with the United States and other regional partners. Cooperation on maritime security is crucial.
• Pursue diplomatic solutions through international law. UNCLOS provides a framework for resolving disputes peacefully.

WPS.News calls on the international community to:

• Uphold the principles of UNCLOS and freedom of navigation.
• Support the Philippines in its efforts to defend its sovereignty.

By working together, the Philippines and the international community can push back against China’s aggressive actions in the WPS and ensure a peaceful and rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.