Philippine vessel once again successfully provoked, Manila was about to cheer, but when they saw this picture, they fell silent instantly!
New satellite images show that on August 22, there were at least 14 Chinese vessels in the lagoon of Scarborough Shoal and its surrounding areas, surrounding the Philippine "Mounts" landing ship. These vessels formed an almost impenetrable monitoring network,
Previously, the Philippine side claimed that their two small boats had "successfully prevented" Chinese speedboats from approaching the "Mounts". However, satellite images tell a different story: if China really wanted to act, how could the Philippines stop them? It is estimated that the Philippines had not even finished celebrating before they realized the truth was quite different from what they thought.
Then why didn't China forcibly tow away this old ship? A report by the Ministry of Natural Resources in 2024 reveals part of the answer. The coral coverage within 400 meters around the warship decreased from 65% in 1999 to 12.7%, and the concentration of active phosphate exceeded five times the standard.
The bottom of the ship has formed "biological concrete" with the coral reef. Forcibly towing it could cause the entire reef to collapse. There are also over 200 tons of residual oil and a large amount of ammunition on board. If leaked, it would poison this sea area for at least ten years. In July 2024, China and the Philippines reached an agreement: only allow the delivery of daily supplies, strictly prohibit the transportation of building materials for reinforcement.
But the Philippines secretly poured 200 cubic meters of quick-drying cement, trying to make the ship "last a few more years." Since 2023, the conflict around Scarborough Shoal has evolved into a delicate "test of rules." Chinese coast guard ships have precisely sprayed water cannons at the Philippine supply ships, effectively preventing the transport of construction materials while avoiding casualties.
Experts predict that the "Mounts" will naturally disintegrate within five years.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1841137511177223/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.