The Philippines has accused China of preparing to start construction on a disputed reef in the South China Sea, as fresh tensions emerged over the energy-rich waters.
Voltaire Gazmin, the Philippines’ defence secretary, yesterday said China had brought concrete blocks to Scarborough Shoal as a precursor to a move that would violate a 2002 agreement between China and the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
“We have noticed the presence of three [Chinese] coastguard ships in Bajo de Masinloc,” Mr Gazmin said, referring to Scarborough Shoal, which is effectively under the control of Chinese vessels. “We have also sighted concrete blocks inside the shoal which is a prelude to construction.”
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