The Philippines has embraced a more assertive foreign policy under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., primarily aimed at highlighting China’s illegal actions in the South China Sea. This initiative includes launching transparency efforts and strengthening defense ties with key allies such as the United States, Japan, Vietnam, and Australia. The goal is to maintain a rules-based maritime order while safeguarding the sovereignty of the Philippines.
In contrast to the traditional ASEAN approach, which values neutrality and non-alignment in global disputes, the Philippines’ bold stance marks a significant departure. This shift challenges China’s maritime assertiveness while fostering closer relationships with global powers. While ASEAN has historically shied away from taking sides, the Philippines has prioritized principled actions to defend its maritime rights.
The aggressive nature of China’s claims poses a significant concern for the Philippines. The country asserts that China’s nearly complete claim over the South China Sea, through the Nine-Dash Line, is unfounded. The militarization of various features in the region, blocking of Philippine resupply missions, and challenges to fishing rights further complicate the situation, disregarding a 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated China’s claims.
The Philippines has reinforced its alliance with the United States, viewing it as a counterbalance to China’s assertiveness. Although the U.S. does not claim territory in the region, it advocates for universal maritime rights, aligning its interests with those of the Philippines. This partnership includes military cooperation and joint naval patrols in the South China Sea.
Beyond the United States, the Philippines has actively engaged other strategic partners like Japan, Vietnam, and Australia. These nations share a commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation and resisting aggressive maritime behavior.
ASEAN's response to the Philippines’ assertive stance has been one of neutrality, focusing on dialogue rather than taking definitive actions against China. Some member states perceive the Philippines' actions as disruptive, yet this range of responses illustrates the region's pluralistic nature rather than disunity.
The Second Thomas Shoal, also known as Ayungin Shoal, holds considerable importance within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The Philippines asserts its sovereignty by stationing troops on the BRP Sierra Madre, despite repeated attempts by China to obstruct resupply missions.
Initially, President Marcos aimed for amicable relations with China. However, increasing aggression from China in the South China Sea necessitated a shift towards more assertive diplomatic and defensive strategies.
By vocally condemning China’s actions and enhancing international partnerships, the Philippines underscores the importance of international law, particularly the 2016 arbitration ruling. This commitment ensures that maritime norms are upheld, fostering a culture of defending sovereignty across future administrations.
While some critics express concerns that closer ties with the U.S. might lead to increased militarization in the region, it is essential to recognize that the South China Sea is already highly militarized due to China’s actions. The Philippines’ strategy aims to strike a balance, emphasizing the defense of its rights without exacerbating tensions.
The Philippines' approach illustrates that smaller nations can adopt principled stands without destabilizing the region. ASEAN can leverage its diverse perspectives to enhance order-building efforts in the region, instead of merely prioritizing unity for its own sake.
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