Manila Dialogue and the Philippines' Stand on the South China Sea
The inaugural Manila Dialogue, held in November 2024, became a vital platform for addressing one of the most contentious issues in the Indo-Pacific—the escalating tensions in the South China Sea. This event brought together diplomats, scholars, and officials from across the globe to explore ways of upholding international law and countering aggressive territorial assertions, particularly those by China.
Central to the discussions was the Philippines' ongoing struggle to maintain sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea (WPS), a portion of the South China Sea within its 200 nautical mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The Dialogue was especially significant as it marked the first time Filipino and Chinese participants engaged in such a direct diplomatic effort within the Philippines. It underscored the need for dialogue amid Beijing's coercive tactics, which have included ramming Filipino vessels, deploying maritime militias, and conducting water cannon attacks.
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In response to these provocations, the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has adopted a "whole-of-nation" approach to safeguarding the WPS. This strategy leverages both domestic reforms—such as military modernization and enhanced maritime legislation—and strengthened international partnerships with allies like the United States, Australia, and other Indo-Pacific and European nations. Such initiatives aim to uphold a free and rules-based maritime order. However, the Philippines also faces challenges from China's disinformation campaigns, which seek to undermine public trust and sway regional narratives in favor of Beijing's controversial "Nine-Dash Line" claims.
At the Manila Dialogue, the Philippines gained support for the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling, which invalidated China's sweeping territorial claims. Despite this, Chinese representatives defended Beijing's actions, framing them as necessary countermeasures against Manila's efforts to assert control over disputed areas. These sharp exchanges highlighted the growing divergence in perspectives, with many nations reaffirming their opposition to China's aggressive maneuvers.
The Dialogue’s success reflects the Philippines' growing confidence in asserting its rights, while fostering greater collaboration among like-minded states. President Marcos Jr.’s declaration that “Filipinos do not yield” captures the nation’s resolve, yet sustaining this momentum will be critical amid shifting political and global dynamics.
Ultimately, the Manila Dialogue is a testament to the power of inclusive diplomacy in addressing complex regional disputes. By engaging diverse perspectives while staying grounded in international law, the Philippines is striving to balance its diplomatic efforts with defense strategies to secure its maritime sovereignty in an increasingly contested region.
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