MANILA, Philippines – Does China’s withdrawal of two of its vessels from the disputed Scarborough Shoal signal progress in efforts to end the standoff in the area?

The Philippines is likely to doubt that. After all, it’s not the first time that China pulled out its ships from the shoal.

President Benigno Aquino III himself has warned neighboring countries they should fear China’s growing aggressiveness over its claims in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea).

Aquino told reporters Monday, April 23, that China’s territorial claims spanned a huge area and were getting “closer and closer” to the Philippine archipelago.

“They claim this entire body of water practically. Look at what is excluded and what they are claiming,” Aquino told reporters as he pointed to a map of the area. “So how can the others not be fearful of what is transpiring?”

But on the same day, Chinese Embassy spokesperson Zhang Hua said in a statement: “The withdrawal of the two ships proves once again China is not escalating the situation as some people said, but de-escalating the situation.”

Zhang referred to fishery ship Yuzheng 310 and maritime surveillance ship No. 084 that supposedly left Scarborough Shoal last Sunday, April 22.

“China is ready to settle this incident through friendly diplomatic consultations,” he added.

First departure

It is not the first time, however, that China pulled out its ships from Scarborough Shoal in the standoff now entering its 3rd week. 

Last April 14, the Philippine military said 7 Chinese fishing vessels and a marine survey ship had left Scarborough Shoal. 

Later that day, the Department of Foreign Affairs reported shows of force from the Chinese side even if China had supposedly requested “no surprises” until negotiations on the Scarborough Shoal dispute resume.

China’s supposed actions included the return of one of its white ships and the harassment of a Philippine archeological vessel by a Chinese white ship. 

“It appears there is an element that is lacking in our negotiations,” Foreign Secretary Albert Del Rosario then said. “I seek a deeper element of trust from our Chinese friends.” – Rappler.com