China Strengthens Patrols at Disputed Scarborough Shoal After Philippines Clashes

China’s naval and air forces conducted combat-readiness patrols around the disputed Scarborough Shoal on Friday, while the China Coast Guard separately carried out law-enforcement patrols. Beijing described the operations as countermeasures against alleged Philippine rights violations and provocative acts, and said patrols in the area had been strengthened this month. The Philippines regards the shoal and surrounding waters as within its maritime territory, while China claims sovereignty over the area; their competing claims have repeatedly fueled maritime confrontations. The patrols followed renewed disagreements between the two countries during a regional ASEAN defense gathering.