How is China responding to the 2016 international ruling about its claims in the South China Sea?

Despite a 2016 international ruling that invalidated China's sweeping claims to the South China Sea, Beijing has continued its aggressive expansion in the region. Recent months have witnessed escalating confrontations, with Chinese Coast Guard vessels firing water cannons at Philippine fishing vessels and government boats. These aggressive actions demonstrate China's refusal to accept the international legal decision and its determination to assert control over disputed waters. The confrontations include dangerous side sweeping incidents that put Philippine vessels at risk, highlighting Beijing's increasingly assertive approach to territorial claims regardless of international law.