SUMMARY
There’s a new development in Beijing’s claims on issues concerning the West Philippine Sea.
After insisting on a “gentleman’s agreement” and a “new mode” in Ayungin Shoal, Chinese officials are introducing a new term: a “temporary special arrangement” on Panatag or Scarborough Shoal.
The revelation of another supposed agreement made under the previous Duterte administration came days after the China Coast Guard blasted its water cannons on Philippine ships in Panatag Shoal, a feature just over 120 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales.
What is this supposed deal? Based on what was released by the Chinese embassy in Manila, there are essentially two parts to it:
PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela denied the existence of any such agreeme…