The Chinese government plans to build several structures in the hotly-contested Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea in preparation for China’s eventual occupation of the shoal located within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EZZ). The revelations of the planned construction was revealed to the media by former national security adviser Roilo Golez.
In a press conference held at Quezon City, the former lawmaker Roilo Golez showed a map of Panatag Shoal with markings indicating China’s construction plans for a lagoon as big as Quezon City.
Some of the facilities which will be constructed in the Scarborough Shoal is a port and a 3,000-meter long runway for the northern portion of the lagoon. On the Eastern side, a “tropical and holiday area” eyed to attract tourists will rise.
Aside from the port and airport, government buildings and a hotel will be constructed also in the southern portion of Scarborough Shoal while the mouth of the shoal is eyed as an entryway for Chinese ships.
According to Roilo Golez, the map he presented to the media was obtained from some very reliable sources. He even noted that “This will be a huge military base and it’s so close to the Philippines. It’s a dagger that will be aiming at our vital economic installation. It will be a clear threat to us and to the region, Golez said.
Another source revealed the same photo of the plans for Scarborough Shoal which includes a runway, power system, residences, and harbor capable of supporting Chinese Navy warships. Scarborough Shoal (Panatag) is located about 150 miles from the Philippines’ coast. It is claimed by Manila but has been under Beijing’s control since 2012 under the administration of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III.