Part 2/15:
In July 2016, an international tribunal delivered a historic judgment in favor of the Philippines against China's expansive claims in the region, notably the so-called "nine-dash line" that encompasses roughly 80-90% of the sea. The tribunal ruled that China's claims had no legal basis and that features like Scarborough Shoal and other reefs should be considered traditional fishing grounds for local fishermen. Despite this legal victory, enforcement remains weak, and China's maritime assertiveness has continued unabated.