Phl protests China's planned Scarborough nature reserve

The Philippines strongly protested yesterday China's plan to establish a nature reserve in Panatag Shoal as Manila called on Beijing to immediately withdraw the plan.

- — With Michael Punongbayan

The State Council of China approved the establishment of the "Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve" in the Panatag Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said "Bajo de Masinloc is a longstanding and integral part of the Philippines over which it has sovereignty and jurisdiction."

"The Philippines likewise has the exclusive authority to establish environmental protection areas over its territory and relevant maritime zones," the DFA said.

The DFA said the Philippines would issue a formal diplomatic protest against this "illegitimate and unlawful action by China as it clearly infringes upon the rights and interests of the Philippines in accordance with international law."