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. However, these waters remain contested.
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.
