Philippines Installs ‘Sovereign Markers’ Over Islands in Disputed South China Sea

[claireokc]

The Philippines has installed five 30-foot-long navigational buoys bearing the national flag on four islands near the disputed South China Sea, where Beijing has increased its military presence. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced on May 18 the placement of five navigational buoys on four important islands—Lawak Island, Likas Island, Parola Island, and Pag-asa Island—in the South China Sea, which Filipino refers to as the West Philippine Sea. PCG Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu said the markers indicate that the vicinity waters have been designated as special protected zones where mining and oil exploration are prohibited. Abu praised the task force for the “resounding success in installing our sovereign markers that are now flashing lights at night to guide sailors as they traverse the treacherous waters of the [West Philippine Sea].”...

Source: https://www.theepochtimes.com/philippin ... 83593.html