How the Philippines is Fighting Back Against China’s Aggression in the South China Sea
The South China Sea, a region marked by its strategic and economic significance, has become a focal point of contention among various nations, most notably between China and the Philippines. This escalating dispute, driven by overlapping territorial claims, centers on China’s expansive assertion of sovereignty over nearly the entire sea, including areas close to other countries’ shores. This claim is visualized through the ambiguous “nine-dash line,” which intrudes into the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines.
China’s growing presence in the South China Sea, which began decades ago, has been marked by a series of aggressive actions. This includes the seizure of the Paracel Islands from Vietnam in 1974 and the takeover of Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands from the Philippines in 1995. Despite a 2016 ruling by a tribunal at The Hague, which stated that China’s historic claims and nine-dash line were superseded by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, Beijing has continued its activities, dismissing the ruling as irrelevant.
The Philippines, recognizing the gravity of the situation, has taken a multifaceted approach to counter China’s aggression. This includes bolstering its military capabilities and fortifying alliances, especially with the United States. Notably, in February 2023, the U.S. announced the temporary return of its troops to four new military bases in the Philippines, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations in the face of China’s maritime pursuits. This move marks a significant shift in the Philippines’ defense strategy, contrasting with the previous administration’s inclination towards China.
The Philippines has also been vocal in international forums, asserting its rights and highlighting China’s aggressive actions. Incidents such as the blocking and firing of water cannons by China’s coast guard against Philippine supply boats, and the installation of barriers near Scarborough Shoal, have been condemned by the Philippines, which demands the removal of all “illegal structures” built within its EEZ.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., taking a firm stance, emphasizes the need for a “paradigm shift” in the Philippines’ approach to the South China Sea issue. This is evident in the country’s recent actions, such as joint patrols with the United States and Australia and trilateral exercises with the U.S. and Japan. These developments reflect an increased focus on defending the nation’s borders and countering China’s claims.
However, the Philippines faces challenges in this endeavor. China’s counter-narratives and the complexities of coordinating a unified strategy among various stakeholders pose significant obstacles. Furthermore, the Philippines must navigate the delicate balance of maintaining economic ties with China while asserting its territorial rights.
In conclusion, the Philippines’ response to China’s aggression in the South China Sea is a nuanced blend of diplomatic, military, and legal strategies. While the situation remains complex and fraught with challenges, the Philippines’ efforts to uphold its sovereignty and international law in the region are crucial steps in addressing this long-standing dispute.
