The Philippines on Monday warned of “serious repercussions” if China removes navigational buoys installed within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the disputed South China Sea.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) installed five navigational buoys last week to mark its sovereignty over the country’s EEZ in the South China Sea—which Manila refers to as the West Philippine Sea—amid Beijing’s increased presence in the region.
The PCG has not reported any reaction from Beijing after installing the buoys. Vice Adm. Joseph Coyme, chief of the PCG’s Maritime Safety Services Command, said the buoys remained in position based on aerial surveillance conducted on May 13.
Coyme did not specify the nature of the repercussions, only stating that they will need to discuss thoroughly in consultation with the National Task Force for the South China Sea if such issues arise.
Read more: Philippines Warns China Not to Remove Buoys or Face ‘Serious Repercussions’
