The Philippine Navy has discovered several underwater structures and barriers within Panatag Shoal, also known as Scarborough Shoal, raising new concerns about heightened activity in the disputed area.
According to naval reports, these underwater formations appear to have been recently placed and could be intended to restrict access to certain parts of the shoal. Authorities are still verifying who installed them, but the findings have once again drawn attention to the growing tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
The Navy said the discovery was made during routine maritime patrols. Officials are currently assessing the impact of these underwater barriers on the country’s fishing activities and navigation routes in the region.
The Department of National Defense and other government agencies have been informed, and further investigations are underway to determine whether these structures violate international maritime laws or Philippine sovereignty.