The South China Sea and Benham Rise are regions of significant geopolitical, economic, and strategic importance. China’s activities in these areas have far-reaching implications for regional stability, international law, and the interests of neighboring countries, including the Philippines. This document provides a comprehensive analysis of China’s historical expansion, military capabilities, and legal disputes in the South China Sea, as well as the inclusion of Benham Rise into Philippine waters.

Key Points:

1. Historical Expansion: China has gradually expanded its presence in the South China Sea since 1946 by occupying islands and installing military equipment.
2. Nine-Dash Line: China claims almost the entire South China Sea based on its “nine-dash line,” aiming to control the area for its rich fisheries, potential oil and gas reserves, and strategic military value.
3. Military Capabilities: The document analyzes China’s growing military capabilities in the South China Sea and its disputes with the Philippines and other countries over islands and maritime features in the region.
4. Economic and Strategic Importance: The South China Sea is crucial for global trade, with $5.3 trillion in ship-borne goods passing through annually, accounting for almost half of the world’s shipborne trade. It is also important for fisheries and rich in oil, gas, and methane hydrates.
5. Legal Disputes: The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) tribunal ruled that China’s nine-dash line claim has no legal basis and is inconsistent with international law. The tribunal also found that Scarborough Shoal is a rock entitled to a 12nm territorial sea but not a 200nm EEZ.
6. Benham Rise: The inclusion of Benham Rise into Philippine waters has stirred public interest due to its resource potential.

The document provides a comprehensive analysis of the geopolitical, economic, and legal implications of China’s activities in the South China Sea and Benham Rise.