How a small, disputed island wards off China's power claims

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. But they are disputed.

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.

China calls the island Zhongye, while the Philippines refers to it as Pag-asa. The Philippines currently controls the island. Fishermen are often harassed by the Chinese coast guard on the high seas.