I remember when I was in elementary I asked my History teacher what will be the resolution over the disputed territory. My History teached said she didn't know the answer. Only time will tell.
Years passed and the issue resurfaced. Whether it was a blessing in disguise that the Chinese fishermen reminded us of the historic claims that the Philippine government needs to address, only time can truly tell when this will end.
Let us the read the position of the Philippines on its claims over the land:
(source: http://www.gov.ph/2012/04/18/philippine-position-on-bajo-de-masinloc-and-the-waters-within-its-vicinity/)
Department of Foreign Affairs
April 18, 2012
April 18, 2012
Background on the Bajo de Masinloc (Panatag) incident
Bajo de Masinloc is an integral part of
the Philippine territory. It is part of the Municipality of Masinloc,
Province of Zambales. It is located 124 nautical miles west of Zambales
and is within the 200 nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and
Philippine Continental Shelf.
A
Philippine Navy Surveillance aircraft monitored eight Chinese fishing
vessels anchored inside the Bajo de Masinloc (Panatag Shoal) on Sunday,
April 8, 2012, in the conduct of its maritime patrols and its
enforcement of the Philippine Fisheries Code and marine environment
laws. On April 10, 2012, the BRP Gregorio del Pilar, in
accordance with the established Rules of Engagement, dispatched an
inspection team that reported that large amounts of illegally collected
corals, giant clams, and live sharks were found in the compartments of
these fishing vessels.
The actions of the Chinese fishing
vessels are a serious violation of the Philippines’ sovereignty and
maritime jurisdiction. The poaching of endangered marine resources is in
violation of the Fisheries Code and the Convention on International
Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES).
