How a Small Disputed Island Wards Off China’s Power Claims

Thitu Island: There have been repeated confrontations in the South China Sea between Chinese and Philippine vessels. Around 400 Filipinos on Thitu Island live amid ongoing tensions in the disputed waters.

According to Deutsche Welle, Thitu Island in the South China Sea is home to a Philippine fishing village. The waters around Thitu are rich in fish and mineral resources. Busy shipping routes that connect Asia with Africa and Europe traverse the waters. But they are disputed.

China, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Taiwan all lay claim to Thitu Island. The contested isle lies 300 miles (480 kilometers) from the Philippine province of Palawan.