Philippines sends ship to Sabina Shoal

The Philippine Coast Guard has confirmed the return of the vessel Teresa Magbanua from Sabina Shoal, where it monitored suspected Chinese land reclamation activities for five months. In response to China's demands for the withdrawal of the ship, the Philippines announced that another vessel will immediately take over to maintain its presence in the area, which is claimed by both nations. The National Maritime Council emphasized that the Teresa Magbanua's mission was completed, and it will be resupplied and repaired before resuming operations. The situation has escalated tensions, with both countries accusing each other of vessel collisions last month. This move follows high-level talks between Manila and Beijing, where the Philippines reiterated its stance on Sabina Shoal, while China insisted on its sovereignty over the area. The shoal, known as Escoda Shoal in the Philippines and Xianbin Reef in China, lies within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.