The national security advisers from the Philippines, the United States, and Japan have collectively urged China to abstain from further provocative actions, especially highlighting Beijing’s recent conduct in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This collective statement, issued by the White House, expressed concerns over the “dangerous and unlawful” actions of the People’s Republic of China near Second Thomas Shoal and Scarborough Reef. The three countries emphasized the need for China to adhere to the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling and cease provocative behaviors. This trilateral communication underlined their commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation, peace, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, along with a focus on enhancing defense and security capabilities, particularly in cybersecurity, and maintaining a free and open maritime order.
In a related incident, the Philippine government filed a diplomatic protest against China’s use of a “military-grade laser” by its coast guard to obstruct a Philippine vessel in the South China Sea. This act was described as aggressive and disappointing by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, especially in light of a recent state visit by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr to China, where agreements to manage maritime differences through diplomacy and dialogue were made. The United States supported the Philippines in this matter, citing the 2016 international court ruling that found no legal basis for China’s claim to almost the entire South China Sea. The U.S. reiterated that this decision is final and legally binding on both China and the Philippines.
China, however, maintains that its coast guard actions are lawful and professional. The country has been increasingly assertive over its claims in the South China Sea, deploying its coast guard, maritime militia, and fishing vessels to support these claims. In response to the growing tensions, the Philippines has agreed to allow the U.S. more access to its military bases under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement and announced plans to boost security ties with Japan.