South China Sea: Waters of Contention
In this site, you will find stories about the South China Sea, including the Spratly Islands, written by VERA Files as well as articles by experts on the subject which, we think, will help in understanding the various facets of that vast, important area being contested by several countries.
Latest Stories

The Scars of Scarborough
By Vince Lopez
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Feb 12, 2024
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This special report was produced under VERA Files’ project on enhancing the media’s capability to raise public awareness of the situation in the South China Sea, funded by the Government of Canada through its Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. #CanadaFundPH #Together75A different version of this report has appeared in the Manila Standard on Feb. 1, 2024.

Riding the tide of change: Zambales fisherfolk bear the brunt of Chinese incursion in West Philippine Sea
By Joanna Rose Aglibot
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Jan 15, 2024
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For Tabios and Cuaresma, and thousands of other fishermen in this province, the WPS dispute is not just about fighting for our territorial rights but also fighting for their livelihood. (This special report was produced under VERA Files’ project on enhancing the media’s capability to raise public awareness of the situation in the South China Sea, funded by the Government of Canada through its Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. #CanadaFundPH )

Aborted trip to Lawak Island: Mission accomplished
By Gerald Ford Ticke
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Jan 15, 2024
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"I was a bit disappointed with the decision to turn back. So were the other volunteers. But the incident all the more strengthened their commitment to defend the country’s territory in the West Philippine Sea." Read Palawan News reporter Gerald Ticke's first-hand account of his experience joining a Christmas caravan to Lawak Island in the West Philippine Sea. (This special report was produced under VERA Files’ project on enhancing the media’s capability to raise public awareness of the situation in the South China Sea, funded by the Government of Canada through its Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. #CanadaFundPH )
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