The Philippines has just released new aerial photographs that reveal China building large infrastructures on a heavily contested Spratly Island.

The images were taken when the largest military exercise in 15 years between the Philippines and the United States --- the "Balikatan" (shoulder-to-shoulder) --- war games were taking place. It involved a total of 11,000 participants.

Like Us on Facebook

The photographs centered on a massive construction project China was proceeding with in the disputed area last Monday. The Philippines warned China of the potential impact on regional stability, trade routes, and environment issues that would become apparent moving forward.

On Spratlys, the construction project seems to involve taking sand from the ocean floor and piling it up on existing coral reefs. In doing so, the China wants to form large reclaimed land masses.

The photograph includes infrastructures on the artificial island that includes a runway, a shipping dock, and at least one multi-story building.

Upon discovering the development General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Chief of State of the Philippines, revealed to a press conference on Monday that there were compelling reasons to let the whole world know of the potential negative effects of China's aggressive takeover.

According to Catapang, this would include the destruction of 300 acres of coral reef systems that would inevitably lead to damage to ecological balance and biodiversity. He adds that it could also mess up international shipping lanes.

He says that apart from navigation issues, it could cause tension among other claimant countries due to the possible military purpose of China's new foothold.

Upon hearing the news, President Barack Obama expressed his concern at the apparent and blatant bullying that China was doing.

China retorted through its foreign ministry though, defending the construction project as one that is justifiable and lawful.

Spokesperson Hong Lei said that the constructions were there for, "maritime search and rescue, disaster prevention and mitigation, marine science and research," as well as other areas.

Tagsspratlys, Balikatan