By Martin Petty and Karen Lema

(Reuters) – The Philippines has reacted strongly to China’s announcement it would establish a nature reserve in the South China Sea at the disputed Scarborough Shoal, site of years of standoffs between the two countries.

WHAT’S THE SHOAL’S SIGNIFICANCE?

Named after a British ship grounded on the atoll nearly three centuries ago, the Scarborough Shoal is one of Asia’s most contested maritime features and a flashpoint for diplomatic flare-ups over sovereignty and fishing rights.

Located 200 km (124 miles) off the Philippines and inside its exclusive economic zone, the shoal is coveted for its bountiful fish stocks and a stunning turquoise lagoon that provides safe haven for vessels during storms. It is named Huangyan Island by Beijing, while Manila calls it

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