🇵🇭🇨🇳 Philippines Updates Thitu Maritime Map

The Philippines has unveiled a new map of Thitu Island and said it plans to file an updated maritime chart with the UN as part of its South China Sea claim. The chart covers water depths, island contours and features around Thitu, Lawak and other parts of the Kalayaan island group, and supports Manila’s move to formalise its documented position.

Officials said the filing would not establish sovereignty by itself, but would reduce legal ambiguity and allow the Philippines to identify and contest competing claims in more precise terms. Beijing also claims Thitu, which it calls Zhongye Dao, as part of the Spratlys, making the updated chart part of a broader effort by Manila to reinforce its legal and administrative presence in a disputed area.

The map was presented as more than a technical document, with Philippine officials framing it as a record of presence and claim over Pagasa and nearby features. The filing adds another legal-administrative layer to the maritime dispute around the island.

#Philippines #China

@asianomics