Wed Apr 30 13:10:00 UTC 2025: **Philippines Rejects China’s Claim of Sandy Cay Seizure Amid Joint Military Drills**
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines has vehemently denied Chinese claims that it seized Sandy Cay, a reef in the disputed South China Sea, after a Chinese Coast Guard statement alleged that six Filipino personnel were “dealt with” for illegally landing on the reef. Philippine officials countered this claim on Monday, presenting photographic and video evidence of a Philippine Coast Guard and Navy mission to Sandy Cay on Sunday, where the Philippine flag was raised.
While acknowledging the presence of Chinese vessels nearby, Manila insisted that the mission was unhindered. They dismissed the Chinese account as disinformation and a blatant lie. This incident follows a Chinese Coast Guard report claiming “maritime control” over Sandy Cay in mid-April, which was accompanied by images of Chinese personnel raising their flag on the reef. However, reports indicate no signs of permanent Chinese occupation.
The timing of the Chinese claim is significant, coinciding with the start of three weeks of joint military exercises between the Philippines and the United States, known as “Balikatan.” China has criticized these exercises, accusing the Philippines of “collusion with countries outside the region” and asserting that the drills undermine regional stability. Analysts suggest that the Chinese flag-raising on Sandy Cay may be intended as a message not only to the Philippines but also to the United States. The escalating tension highlights the ongoing dispute over sovereignty in the South China Sea.
First Piper 