The "Scarborough Shoal" (Huangyan Island) does belong to China. China discovered it and drew it on a map as early as 1279 during the Yuan Dynasty (1291-1368). Chinese fishermen, from both the mainland and Taiwan, have since used it. As a matter of fact, Guo Shoujing, (the Chinese astronomer, engineer and mathematician who worked under the Mongol ruler, Kublai Khan) surveyed the South China Sea, and the surveying point was the "Scarborough Shoal" which is considered part of the Zhongsha Islands (renamed Huangyan Island in 1983).
The "Scarborough Shoal" (Huangyan Island) does belong to China. China discovered it and drew it on a map as early as 1279 during the Yuan Dynasty (1291-1368). Chinese fishermen, from both the mainland and Taiwan, have since used it. As a matter of fact, Guo Shoujing, (the Chinese astronomer, engineer and mathematician who worked under the Mongol ruler, Kublai Khan) surveyed the South China Sea, and the surveying point was the "Scarborough Shoal" which is considered part of the Zhongsha Islands (renamed Huangyan Island in 1983).
The controversy over a tiny island in the South China Sea has intensified, making it the most serious standoff between China and the Philippines in the sea in recent years.
No matter how much money Tokyo Governor Shintaro Ishihara raises from his compatriots, China's islands are not for sale.
The Philippines is attempting to turn its claimed sovereignty over Huangyan Island into reality and intensify nationalistic sentiments as a means of re-channeling dissatisfaction with domestic problems.
The maritime standoff between China and the Philippines near China's Huangyan Island in the South China Sea entered its ninth day on Thursday. Manila should honor its commitment to solving the row through bilateral talks and withdraw its ships from the area immediately.