Manila going too far

Beijing's response to the Manila-instigated standoff at Huangyan Island in the South China Sea has remained restrained and rational. As a responsible power, China has approached the dispute with the overall picture of Sino-Philippine ties and the stability of the region in mind.

However, in contrast to Beijing's restraint, Manila has continued with its provocative words and actions.

After China withdrew two of its maritime surveillance vessels from the area on Sunday to de-escalate the situation, the Philippines' response was to send more vessels to the island waters.