China’s aggression undermines calls for peaceful dialogue
THE recent actions of China in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) have once again demonstrated its disregard for peaceful dialogue and the de-escalation of tensions in the region. National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya rightfully called out China’s “illegal and irresponsible” behavior, emphasizing that such actions negate any credibility it may have in advocating for peaceful resolutions. (Read the Businessmirror story: “NSC exec: Chinese ‘aggressive’ actions in WPS negate peaceful dialogue calls,” March 6, 2024).
The incident on March 5, where Filipino ships were damaged and crew members were injured as China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels harassed and impeded a routine rotation and resupply mission, is a clear example of China’s aggressive tactics. The systematic and consistent manner in which China carries out these actions shows a complete disregard for international law and the rights of other nations.
Malaya’s response to the CCG’S claims of professionalism and legality is justified. The evidence from independent media sources clearly shows that the CCG engaged in provocative, unilateral, and illegal acts. The attempt to shift blame onto the Philippine Coast Guard is nothing more than Chinese disinformation and fake news.
The Philippines, in contrast, has consistently acted peacefully and responsibly in accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) and the legally binding 2016 Arbitral Award. The country’s commitment to upholding its sovereign rights over its maritime zones, including Ayungin Shoal, is unwavering.
From the Associated Press: “Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Monday that he had no choice but to defend his country’s territory in the South China Sea against what he called Chinese aggression and illegal actions in pursuit of Beijing’s own territorial claims.”
“It is unfortunate that despite the clarity provided by international law, provocative, unilateral and illegal actions continue to infringe upon our sovereignty, our sovereign rights and jurisdictions,” Marcos told the Lowy Institute international policy think tank in Melbourne, Australia.
It is not just the Philippines that has expressed concern over China’s actions in the WPS. The international community, including the United States, Canada, and France, has condemned China’s behavior and called for a peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with Unclos. These statements highlight the growing global consensus against China’s aggressive actions and its violation of international law.
The US State Department’s refusal to speculate on whether the recent aggression constitutes an armed attack under the Us-philippine Mutual Defense Treaty is a matter of concern. However, the statement reaffirming the United States’ support in the face of dangerous and unlawful actions sends a strong message to China.
Canada and France also joined the chorus of condemnation, emphasizing the need for respect for international law, freedom of navigation, and peaceful dialogue. The international community must stand united in opposing any threat or use of force that goes against established norms and principles.
China’s actions in the WPS not only undermine regional stability but also pose a risk to the security of the Indo-pacific region as a whole. It is essential that all nations committed to upholding international law and maintaining peace and stability in the region continue to speak out against China’s aggression.
Dialogue and peaceful resolutions are the only way to address disputes in the WPS. China must recognize the rights of other nations, respect international law, and engage in meaningful discussions to find mutually acceptable solutions. The Philippines and other nations directly impacted by these events remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice and the safeguarding of their sovereign rights.
The international community must pay attention to the situation in the West Philippine Sea and support the Philippines and other affected countries in their pursuit of a rules-based order. It is imperative to preserve the primacy of international law to ensure equitable and sustainable outcomes for all stakeholders in the region. Only through collective action can we ensure that the waters of the West Philippine Sea remain a zone of stability and cooperation, rather than a source of conflict and tension.