Comicomment: Who is behind the provocations in South China Sea

(ECNS)--On March 23, the Philippines sent a supply vessel and two Coast Guard vessels, without permission from the Chinese government, to intrude into the adjacent waters of Ren’ai Jiao of China’s Nansha Qundao, in an attempt to send construction materials to the military vessel illegally grounded at Ren’ai Jiao for its repair and reinforcement. China Coast Guard took necessary measures at sea in accordance with law to safeguard China's rights, firmly obstructed the Philippines’ vessels, and foiled the Philippines’ attempt.

However, the Philippines distorts right and wrong, and engages in unjust accusations. And the spokesperson of the U.S. State Department also posted on social media to support the Philippines. This is not the first time the United States has stood behind the Philippines' provocative actions against China.

The Philippines and the United States have their own calculations. The Philippines attempts to leverage the United States to gain advantages in the South China Sea, while the United States has been fanning disputes, misrepresenting facts, and stoking confrontation in the region, openly defying the wishes of regional countries to maintain regional peace and stability. 

The United States should refrain from using the Philippines as a pawn to destabilize the South China Sea. The Philippines needs to refrain from being manipulated by the United States. Lessons from history tell us that a pawn will only end up being abandoned.