Amber Phillips
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is calling for urgent actions regarding escalating tensions in the South China Sea. During a significant address at the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane, Laos, Marcos Jr. urged ASEAN and China to accelerate the creation of a long-awaited Code of Conduct to manage disputes and ensure stability in the region.
In his remarks, Marcos Jr. highlighted several troubling incidents involving Chinese vessels harassing Philippine ships. He stated that economic cooperation alone will not resolve these pressing security concerns. Instead, he emphasized the need for a clear framework to navigate these tensions.
Recent Incidents Heighten Tensions
Marcos Jr. provided details on recent confrontations that underscore the urgency of the situation.
- In August, Chinese vessels harassed the Philippine Coast Guard during a routine patrol in Escoda Shoal, a location within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
- More recently, PLA Navy missile ships intimidated Philippine civilian fishing vessels and aircraft, indicating a troubling pattern of aggressive behavior from China.
“This kind of behaviour cannot be ignored,” Marcos Jr. remarked, shedding light on the increasing disregard for international law. He specifically cited violations of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 1972 Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.
A Call for Cooperation and Action
Marcos Jr. emphasized the necessity for regional cooperation in addressing shared concerns. He stated, “These incidents require concerted and serious efforts to truly manage our disputes in the South China Sea.” The President acknowledged the positive strides made through the China-Philippines Bilateral Consultation Mechanism. However, he expressed disappointment that these advancements have not significantly improved the overall security landscape in the contested waters.
He noted, despite some progress, “tensions remain,” and underscored that merely focusing on economic partnerships will not alleviate geopolitical anxieties.
ASEAN’s Role and Regional Support
The President’s call resonates with a growing sentiment among ASEAN nations, many of which have also voiced their concerns over China’s assertive actions in the region. ASEAN members are increasingly offering support to the Philippines in its stance against these provocations.
The support reflects a unified approach from regional neighbors who are also grappling with China’s expanding influence. Several countries are advocating for a collaborative effort to bolster maritime security and uphold the rights of nations within their EEZs.
The Need for a Code of Conduct
At the heart of Indonesia’s diplomatic discussions lies the long-delayed Code of Conduct (COC). This agreement aims to establish clear guidelines for behavior in the South China Sea, where overlapping territorial claims lead to frequent skirmishes.
President Marcos Jr. reiterated that establishing a COC is critical for peace and stability in the region. The urgency of finalizing this document is more pronounced than ever, given the complexities and threats posed by China’s maritime operations.
Implications for Regional Stability
The call for a COC holds significant implications for regional stability:
- It would facilitate open communication between claimants to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.
- A COC could lead to a more structured approach for resolving disputes, allowing countries to focus on cooperative solutions rather than confrontations.
- By addressing security issues collaboratively, ASEAN can enhance its collective defense mechanisms, reassuring member states concerned about their sovereignty.
As tensions simmer, many are questioning whether China will heed calls for a formalized understanding or continue its aggressive maneuvers.
Conclusion
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s plea at the East Asia Summit brings attention to a pivotal issue concerning the South China Sea. The calls for urgent action and a well-defined COC signal a broader consensus among ASEAN nations about the need for collective security measures. As regional dynamics continue to evolve, the emphasis on cooperation and dialogue will be vital in navigating the challenges presented by China’s maritime ambitions.
The path forward requires commitment from all parties involved as they seek to ensure that peace and stability prevail in this strategically important and resource-rich area
