MANILA, Dec 1 - In response to escalating tensions in the South China Sea, the Philippines has unveiled a new coast guard station on Thitu Island. The strategically positioned station will enhance the country's ability to monitor movements of Chinese vessels and aircraft in the disputed waters.

Earlier this year, the Philippine coast guard detected a Chinese navy ship and numerous militia vessels near the contested island, which is one of the nine features occupied by Manila in the Spratly archipelago. In an effort to establish a stronger presence in the area, the Philippines has inaugurated a new three-storey facility equipped with advanced technology, including radar, automatic identification systems, satellite communication, and coastal cameras, according to a statement by the Philippine coast guard.

Eduardo Ano, the Philippine national security adviser, expressed concerns about the unpredictable behavior of the Chinese coast guard, People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, and Chinese militias during his visit to the island. However, the Chinese embassy in Manila has yet to respond to the recent development.

Thitu Island, popularly known as Pag-asa, is of significant strategic importance and is the largest Philippine outpost in the South China Sea. Despite competing territorial claims from other nations in the region, it remains under Manila's control. Located approximately 300 miles (480 km) west of the Philippine province of Palawan, Thitu Island is home to approximately 200 residents and serves as a symbol of the Philippines' territorial claim.

The South China Sea is a vital shipping route, facilitating the movement of goods worth over $3 trillion annually. Apart from the Philippines, other countries such as Brunei, China, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam have conflicting claims to sovereignty in the area.

The construction of the new coast guard station marks a significant milestone for the Philippines as it seeks to strengthen its presence and monitor activities in the contested waters. This development is anticipated to further impact the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea.