Al Jazeera :
Chinese state media has warned the Philippines against “causing trouble and chaos” in the South China Sea, as tensions continue to boil over the disputed waters.
State-controlled newspaper the People’s Daily issued the call in a commentary published on Monday, saying the Philippines has repeatedly infringed on China’s territory in the region and risked making a severe “miscalculation”.
The commentary singled out Philippine activities near Second Thomas Shoal, a resource-rich waterway that Manila occupies, but China claims as its own territory.
China’s People’s Daily blamed the United States for encouraging the Philippines’ “provocative” actions in the area, which it says “irresponsibly escalate regional tensions”.
“The Philippines relies on the support of external forces, ignores China’s goodwill and restraint, and repeatedly provokes China’s principles and bottom line,” said the editorial. Written under the pen name Zhong Sheng, or “Voice of China”, the column is often used to offer hardline views on foreign policy matters.
“This behaviour is extremely dangerous and has seriously harmed regional peace, stability, prosperity and development,” the piece reads.
The pointed remarks come amid months of tension as Beijing and Manila have traded accusations over a spate of run-ins in the sea.
In the latest incident on December 10, the Philippines accused China of ramming a supply boat that was carrying Manila’s chief of staff near Second Thomas Shoal.