The South China Sea is once again a hotspot of tension, as the ongoing dispute between China and the Philippines has intensified. The escalation is driven by the political tension between the two nations, each vying for recognition of their territorial claims in the South China Sea.
This region serves as a crucial trade route with an annual value of $3 trillion. In response to the growing tension, the Philippines has labeled China "the biggest disruptor" of peace in Southeast Asia.
Philippines Calls China "The Biggest Disruptor" of Southeast Asian Peace
In response to the growing tension, the Philippines has labeled China "the biggest disruptor" of peace in Southeast Asia. This statement was made by Gilberto Teodoro, the Secretary of National Defense of the Philippines, during the Conference of the US Indo-Pacific Command.
The dispute has been simmering for over a year, with Beijing asserting its claim over the entire South China Sea, which is contested by several Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, Taiwan, and the Philippines.
Furthermore, China asserts that the entire South China Sea, including all reefs and waters within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), belongs to China. The Philippine EEZ extends 370 kilometers from its coast.
Read also: Philippines to Build Airport on Disputed South China Sea Island Amid Tensions with Beijing
China’s Aggressive Tactics in the South China Sea: A Threat to Regional Stability
A recent incident occurred near Sabina Shoal, where Philippine vessels were targeted by Chinese ships, which rammed into them. In addition, Chinese ships engaged in dangerous maneuvers, using water cannons to spray a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries vessel that was delivering medical supplies, fuel, and food to Filipino fishermen.
China justified its actions as necessary preventive measures to deter the Philippine vessels from exerting control over the South China Sea, which China claims in its entirety.
As a result, the Philippines was forced to abort its mission due to the aggressive maneuvers of the Chinese ships, which the Philippines deemed excessive and detrimental to the stability of the region.
Read also: Asia's First Japanese Partnership: Japan–Philippines Sign Defense Pact Amid Concerns Over China
US-Philippines Joint Military Exercises: A Response to China's Maritime Assertiveness
In response to China's actions, the Philippines, in collaboration with the United States, conducted joint military exercises on July 31. The Philippines and the United States have ramped up their maritime activities, with joint military drills serving as a direct response to the escalating tension between the Philippine and Chinese navies.
These exercises are intended to strengthen communication and coordination between the United States and the Philippines in protecting their sovereignty and territorial integrity within the Exclusive Economic Zone.
Read also: Philippines and the U.S. Conduct Joint Military Drills Amid the South China Sea Tensions
2016 South China Sea Arbitration: The Legal Battle Over Territorial Claims
Moreover, in June, the Philippines filed a claim over the disputed waters, a move that China vehemently rejected, viewing it as a violation of its sovereignty over the South China Sea, including the reefs and waters within the Philippine EEZ.
In 2016, China also filed a claim of ownership over the South China Sea with the Permanent Court of Arbitration. However, the court ruled that China did not have a valid legal basis for its claim.
The current situation between the Philippines and China is a complex issue that requires a long-term resolution and strong support from both countries and their allies.
This is echoed by the statement from Gilberto Teodoro, who emphasized that the Philippines is currently engaged in a struggle against a formidable opponent and requires a collective consensus and a strong response to China's actions.
Read also: Strategic Moves: How the Philippines Is Strengthening Its Military Presence in the South China Sea
