Diplomacy First in South China Sea Conflict
Philippine Foreign Secretary, Enrique Manalo, emphasized the nation’s commitment to diplomacy and peaceful dialogue in resolving maritime tensions with China in the disputed South China Sea. In a written response to Nikkei Asia, Manalo stated that peace and dialogue must be prioritized amidst growing disputes over maritime boundaries.

Commitment to Dialogue and Peace
Manalo highlighted the Philippines’ consistent effort to engage China sincerely, aiming to rebuild confidence and return to the negotiation table. The recent bilateral consultation in Manila marked a step towards reviving diplomatic channels like the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM).

International Law and Peaceful Resolution
Manalo reiterated that the Philippines’ diplomatic strategy is anchored on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 arbitration award. This international tribunal ruling supported the Philippines, declaring China’s activities within Philippine waters illegal.

Challenges and Confrontations
In recent months, tensions have escalated as China disrupted Philippine supply missions in the West Philippine Sea, leading to confrontations such as the June 17 incident where Chinese Coast Guard personnel seized weapons from a Philippine inflatable boat.

Firm Stance Against Aggression
Manalo condemned China’s actions as illegal and aggressive, underscoring the Philippines’ firm objection to such provocations. He emphasized that the Philippines’ geopolitical shifts and firm stance against China under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. align with the country’s national interests, distinct from the previous administration’s approach.

Philippine Coast Guard personnel inspect the hull of the ship during a collision incident between the Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Sindangan and a Chinese Coast Guard ship in the disputed South China Sea, March 5, 2024. Philippine Coast Guard/Handout via REUTERS

Strategic Independence
Manalo also dismissed views framing the issue as part of US-China strategic competition, asserting the Philippines’ capability to pursue its own national objectives.