In the wake of a violent clash between the Philippine Navy and the China Coast Guard, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has asserted that the Philippines will not be intimidated, though it has no intention of starting a war. The altercation, which occurred off Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, highlighted the escalating tensions between the two nations over territorial disputes.
During a visit to the Philippine South China Sea forces headquarters on Palawan island, President Marcos emphasized his commitment to peaceful resolutions. “In defending the nation, we stay true to our Filipino nature that we would like to settle all these issues peacefully,” he said, awarding medals to 80 sailors involved in the resupply mission to the contested area.
The incident on Monday involved Chinese forces injuring Filipino navy personnel and damaging at least two military boats using machetes, axes, and hammers. A Filipino sailor lost a thumb in the clash, and Manila accused the Chinese coastguard of stealing equipment, including guns and inflatable boats. Beijing, however, claimed its coastguard acted in a “professional and restrained” manner, blaming Manila for the confrontation.
The clash has drawn international condemnation, with the United States, European Union, Japan, and Australia expressing alarm. The United States, which has a mutual defense pact with the Philippines, reiterated its commitment to defend its ally if attacked. However, the Philippine government stated that it did not consider Monday’s clash an “armed attack” that would trigger the treaty provision.
The South China Sea, a strategic waterway claimed by China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, has long been a flashpoint. The latest incident signify the potential for these disputes to escalate into broader conflicts involving global powers. Washington has repeatedly warned that it is obligated to defend the Philippines if Filipino forces are attacked, including in the contested waters.
China recently enacted regulations enforcing a 2021 law that allows its coastguard to use lethal force against foreign ships in its claimed waters. The coastguard can also detain suspected trespassers for up to 60 days without trial. This move has further increased tensions in the region, with Chinese officials urging the Philippines to cease its “infringement and provocation.”
General Romeo Brawner, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, accused the China Coast Guard of behaving “like pirates” during the confrontation. He detailed how Chinese personnel armed with knives and spears boarded Filipino resupply vessels, injuring a sailor and damaging the boats. Brawner condemned the actions, likening them to piracy.
Beijing denied any misconduct, insisting its actions were lawful and aimed at preventing an “illegal” resupply mission by the Philippines. The Chinese Foreign Ministry accused Manila of sending construction materials and weapons to the BRP Sierra Madre, a rusting warship grounded on Second Thomas Shoal to assert Philippine claims.
President Marcos, in his speech, reiterated that the Philippines would not be cowed. “We will never be intimidated or oppressed by anyone,” he declared, urging the sailors to continue fulfilling their duty of defending the nation despite the dangerous situation. Marcos did not name China directly but made clear his stance on the nation’s sovereignty.
Marcos also addressed concerns about the potential involvement of the United States in the conflict. He emphasized that the Philippines is not seeking to instigate war and is committed to peaceful resolutions. “We are not in the business to instigate wars,” he said. “Our calm and peaceful disposition should not be mistaken for acquiescence.”
The situation at Second Thomas Shoal, just 200 kilometers from Palawan and more than 1,000 kilometers from China’s nearest major landmass, has become increasingly volatile. Previous confrontations have seen Chinese forces using water cannons, lasers, and ramming tactics against Filipino vessels. The latest clash involved direct physical altercations and the use of bladed weapons by Chinese personnel.
Videos and images from the incident showed Chinese coastguard personnel boarding Filipino boats, using weapons, and seizing equipment. The Philippines’ Foreign Ministry condemned China’s “illegal and aggressive” behavior, urging Beijing to respect international law and the 2016 tribunal ruling that invalidated China’s extensive claims in the South China Sea.
The confrontation has prompted renewed discussions about the Philippines’ strategy in dealing with China’s assertiveness. Some officials advocate for a stronger stance and closer ties with the United States, while others caution against actions that could further escalate tensions. Marcos’s administration has so far refrained from invoking the mutual defense treaty with the US, preferring diplomatic avenues.
The clash at Second Thomas Shoal highlights the complexity and danger of the South China Sea disputes. With multiple claimants and the involvement of major global powers, the potential for escalation remains a significant concern. The Philippines continues to navigate this challenging environment, balancing its defense needs with a commitment to peaceful resolution and international law.
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, recognizing the broader implications of these regional tensions. The South China Sea remains a critical geopolitical hotspot, with the actions of China and the Philippines serving as a barometer for broader regional stability and international maritime norms.
