What is west philippine sea?

The West Philippine Sea (also known as South China Sea) is a marginal sea of the Western Pacific Ocean. Here are some key aspects:

  • Geography: It encompasses an area of roughly 3.5 million square kilometers (1.4 million sq mi). Bordering countries and territories include China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. It connects to the Pacific Ocean via straits like the Taiwan Strait, Luzon Strait, and Balabac Strait.

  • Resources: The sea is believed to hold significant reserves of oil and natural gas. It is also a vital fishing ground, supporting the livelihoods of millions.

  • Navigation: It is a crucial shipping route, with a significant portion of global maritime trade passing through its waters. This makes it strategically important for international commerce.

  • Territorial%20Disputes: The area is subject to overlapping territorial claims, primarily involving China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Taiwan. These disputes often involve islands, reefs, and other maritime features like the Spratly Islands and Paracel Islands. The Philippines refers to the area within its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea as the West Philippine Sea.

  • International%20Law: The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is a relevant framework for understanding maritime rights and responsibilities in the region. An international tribunal at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in 2016 against China's claims in a case brought by the Philippines, though China has rejected the ruling.