A Day in the South China Sea: A Report by Not Walter Cronkite (November 14, 2024)

Good evening, and welcome to your WPS.News update. This is Not Walter Cronkite reporting, and today we turn our attention to the ever-watchful eye on the South China Sea and the West Philippine Sea.

As of this broadcast, Thursday, November 14th, 19:00 PST, official channels haven’t reported any major incidents within the contested waters between 6:00 AM and now. This relative calm, however, doesn’t paint the whole picture.

The nature of the South China Sea is one of constant movement, both on the surface and beneath the waves. While public pronouncements might be quiet, it’s important to remember that nations with claims in the region, particularly China, often operate with limited transparency regarding their vessel movements.

Now, thanks to the wonders of open-source intelligence (OSINT), we can glean some insights. Social media, while needing verification, has shown a continued presence of fishing vessels in various parts of the WPS. Here’s the caveat: it’s difficult to distinguish between Filipino fishermen exercising their legitimate rights and those potentially operating under the umbrella of other nations.

The Philippine Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, we can be certain, haven’t taken a break. Their unwavering dedication to patrolling these waters ensures the safety of Filipino citizens and serves as a constant reminder of the Philippines’ rightful claim.

The lack of reported confrontations today is a positive sign, but it shouldn’t lull us into complacency. The situation in the South China Sea remains a simmering pot. WPS.News will continue to monitor official pronouncements, credible news outlets, and social media with a critical eye, bringing you the latest verified information.

Remember, folks, vigilance is key. Here at WPS.News, we’ll keep a watchful eye on the horizon, reporting on any developments that could impact the delicate balance in the region. Until tomorrow, this is Not Walter Cronkite signing off.

WPS News Disclaimer: Walter Cronkite does not now, nor ever has, worked for WPS.News.