China and the Philippines have reached a deal aimed at ending confrontations at the fiercely disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, the Philippine government announced Sunday. The shoal, claimed by both nations, has been a hotspot for hostile clashes at sea, raising fears of larger conflicts involving the United States. The agreement was reached after a series of meetings between Philippine and Chinese diplomats in Manila, alongside exchanges of diplomatic notes, to establish a mutually acceptable arrangement without conceding territorial claims. The Philippine government issued a brief statement announcing the agreement but provided no further details. "Both sides continue to recognize the need to deescalate the situation in the South China Sea and manage differences through dialogue and consultation and agree that the agreement will not prejudice each other's positions in the South China Sea," the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila said. The Philippines occupies the Second Thomas Shoal, while China also claims it. Hostile encounters have included the use of water cannons and dangerous maneuvers by Chinese coast guard and other forces to block supplies from reaching Filipino navy personnel stationed at the shoal. The longstanding standoff flared up repeatedly last year, with significant confrontations including an incident on June 17 where Chinese forces rammed and boarded two Philippine navy boats, preventing the transfer of supplies to the outpost on the BRP Sierra Madre. The confrontation resulted in damaged boats, seized supplies, and injured Filipino personnel. The deal comes as China faces multiple disputes over land and sea borders, especially in the South China Sea. This rare agreement with the Philippines could potentially pave the way for similar arrangements with other rival nations to prevent clashes while territorial issues remain unresolved. However, the long-term success and implementation of the deal remain to be seen. — Agencies
