Title: Philippines Seeks Regional Code for South China Sea Amid Rising Tensions
The Philippines has initiated talks with neighbouring countries such as Malaysia and Vietnam to establish a separate code of conduct for the South China Sea, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr announced on Monday. With limited progress in reaching a regional agreement with China, Marcos expressed concerns over the “more dire” situation in the disputed waters.
In an event livestreamed from Hawaii, Marcos emphasized the need for the Philippines to collaborate with allies and neighbouring nations to uphold peace in the South China Sea, a vital maritime route. He highlighted the escalating tension, citing the slow progress in the formulation of a code of conduct between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The President stated, “We have taken the initiative to approach those other countries around ASEAN with whom we have existing territorial conflicts, Vietnam being one of them, Malaysia being another and to make our own code of conduct. Hopefully this will grow further and extend to other ASEAN countries.”
The move comes amidst growing friction between the Philippines and China, with Marcos vocal about China’s “aggressive” behavior and reaffirming strong ties with the United States. The recent meeting between Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum resulted in discussions on de-escalating tensions in the South China Sea.
The South China Sea has been a longstanding point of contention, with China asserting ownership through its “nine-dash line” and intensifying its presence in the disputed waters. Tensions have flared as China has constructed military installations on submerged reefs, encroaching into the exclusive economic zones of neighbouring countries.
China has defended its actions, stating that construction activities within its territory are well within its sovereignty, dismissing remarks from other nations. Marcos reiterated the United States’ support, emphasizing both rhetorical and tangible assistance in addressing the escalating situation in the South China Sea.
While efforts to negotiate a code of conduct have been ongoing for years, concerns remain about the commitment of all parties, particularly China, to abide by a binding set of rules aligned with international law. The announcement of the Philippines’ initiative to engage in separate talks with neighbouring countries marks a significant development in the ongoing dispute over the South China Sea.