The Philippines, a United States ally, has deployed its coast guard flagship to disputed waters in the South China Sea, where China maintains a strong maritime presence.

The Philippine coast guard said the country had an "unwavering commitment" to defending its sovereign rights and jurisdiction within its exclusive economic zone, which extends no more than 230 miles from the coastline under an international treaty.

China, which also conducted law-enforcement and combat-readiness patrols around Huangyan Dao—also known as Bajo de Masinloc in the Philippines—said it is firmly safeguarding the nation's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

Why It Matters

Located about 120 miles west of the Philippine island of Luzon, Scarborough Shoal —also referred to as Bajo de Mas

See Full Page