West Philippines Sea : Philippines Firm on Claims Amid Provisional Deal with China

In a resolute statement during his State of the Nation Address, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made it clear that the country will not compromise its stance on the West Philippines Sea. Emphasizing the need for peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels, Marcos asserted the Philippines’ commitment to upholding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

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Diplomatic Approach to West Philippines Sea Maritime Disputes

Marcos highlighted that maritime disputes should be settled under the rules-based international order, reaffirming the Philippines’ dedication to a fair and pacific approach. “In the face of challenges to our territorial sovereignty, we will assert our rights and interests in the same fair and pacific way that we have always done,” Marcos said. His remarks, which underscored the importance of diplomacy, received a standing ovation from Congress, reflecting broad political support for his stance.

Provisional Agreement on Second Thomas Shoal

The President’s address follows the announcement of a “provisional arrangement” regarding resupply missions to the contested Second Thomas Shoal. The shoal, a strategic point in the South China Sea, has been a flashpoint between the Philippines and China. In 1999, the Philippines deliberately grounded the naval ship Sierra Madre on the shoal to assert its claims, and it has since been a site for regular resupply missions.

Managing Tensions and Ensuring Sovereignty

While specific details of the provisional agreement were not disclosed, the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) emphasized that the arrangement does not compromise national positions. “In our desire to de-escalate the situation in the West Philippines Sea to manage differences in a peaceful manner, we emphasize that the agreement was done in good faith and the Philippines remains ready to implement it,” the DFA stated, urging China to reciprocate.

China’s Response and Continuing Disagreements

China, which claims nearly all of the South China Sea, including the Second Thomas Shoal, confirmed the agreement and expressed willingness to allow resupply missions for humanitarian purposes, provided the Philippines informs them in advance. However, Manila has firmly rejected this stipulation, maintaining that its resupply missions are lawful and do not require prior notification to China.

“The principles and approaches laid out in the agreement were reached through a series of careful and meticulous consultations between both sides that paved the way for a convergence of ideas without compromising national positions,” the DFA clarified. They further refuted China’s demand for prior notification, calling the spokesperson’s statement on this matter inaccurate.

Historical Context and International Rulings

The West Philippines Sea dispute has deep historical roots, with China asserting broad claims over the waterway, including the Second Thomas Shoal. The Philippines, supported by a 2016 ruling from the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, maintains that China’s expansive claims have no basis under international law. Despite this ruling, China has continued to reject its validity.

Incidents and Humanitarian Concerns

Tensions have frequently flared up at the Second Thomas Shoal. Last month, a Filipino sailor was injured during a resupply mission when China Coast Guard vessels allegedly rammed a Philippine boat. Despite these incidents, the Philippines continues to emphasize peaceful and lawful assertion of its rights.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning described the temporary arrangement on humanitarian supplies as reflecting China’s goodwill. Nonetheless, the Philippines remains cautious and steadfast in its approach, ensuring that any agreement does not undermine its sovereignty or national interests.

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Moving Forward

As the Philippines and China navigate these complex and contentious issues, the focus remains on de-escalating tensions and finding diplomatic solutions. President Marcos’ firm stance, coupled with the provisional agreement, underscores a strategic approach to managing the West Philippines Sea dispute—balancing assertiveness with diplomacy.

This approach aims to protect the Philippines’ territorial integrity while fostering stability and cooperation in one of the world’s most contested maritime regions. The international community will undoubtedly be watching closely as these two nations continue their delicate dance over the South China Sea.

Additional Information

• Sources: https://www.msn.com/

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