GUEST COLUMNIST
The uncertainties amid the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue are critical because they present both attractive potential and significant challenges. To tackle these concerns, a broad approach that examines a tight balance between the modernization of the defense, forming alliances with international and regional partners aligned with our advocacies, and engaging diplomatically is critical. Let’s examine the outcomes, challenges, and opportunities that the nation has in handling this delicate geopolitical situation.
The nation has greatly boosted its defense relationships and as a result, garnered foreign backing. Its participation in joint and combined military exercises with allied countries vastly improved interoperability and security within the region. Supporting the Philippines’ narrative, the world community denounced China’s actions in the WPS and fully supported the importance of freedom of navigation and respect for international norms.
To improve the country’s defense requirements, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) continued its modernization program with an emphasis on improving the capabilities of the Philippine Navy (PN). Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) kept pace with the AFP through its fleet upgrading, training of personnel, equipment modernization, and strengthening international cooperation. Most crucially, the Philippines prevented China’s land reclamation activities and protected the nation’s territorial integrity and sovereign rights in the EEZ by enhancing its presence in the WPS.
Still, there are important factors to ponder. The Chinese Coast Guard's aggressive tactics and clashes with the PN and the PCG in the WPS exacerbated regional tensions. Furthermore, the Philippines' shift toward stronger military alliances with the United States and other allies, which resulted in increased military engagement, exacerbated tensions with China. Increased tensions may lead to negative investment sentiment for the country. Also, ongoing tensions strain diplomatic relations with China and pose economic concerns that limit trade and investment prospects.
ASEAN’s reluctance to collectively take up the South China Sea concerns that include the WPS worsens the situation. This occurs as competing interests and economic dependencies on China prevent a cohesive front. The resulting rift weakens ASEAN’s diplomatic leverage, allowing China to exploit member-state concerns. The nation must also manage a multifaceted relationship with China while balancing sovereignty with manageable bilateral relations. Furthermore, China's initiatives pose substantial environmental threats, such as coral destruction during land reclamation.
The country has a number of choices for dealing with these problems. Diplomatic exchanges involving bilateral and international platforms, such as ASEAN, should be expanded to de-escalate conflict. Continuous AFP upgrading coupled with joint and combined training with allies will advance readiness and deterrence. Boosting patrols, either alone or with allies, assert the country’s sovereignty in its territorial seas and sovereign rights in the EEZ. To assist in pressing our claims, pursue bilateral and multilateral diplomacy with key partners other than ASEAN as well as seek legal remedies through international venues such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
On the economic front, the nation must widen its investments and trade links to reduce reliance on China, while also investing in critical domestic industries to bolster its resilience. Exploring clean energy and other energy sources can assist in reducing reliance on volatile maritime zones for resources. Managing delicate ties requires a balanced strategy of asserting sovereign rights while engaging China in meaningful dialogue. To achieve a geopolitical counterbalance to China’s influence, strengthen ties with regional and global states, and adopt a flexible foreign policy. Continuing to boost public awareness while urging national unity raises domestic resilience and international solidarity.
Highlighting the threats posed by China's operations, the preservation of the environment should be promoted in both regional and international bodies. Implementing sustainable resource management norms and partnering with international marine conservation organizations can help prevent environmental damage.
As the country makes incredible progress in improving its defense capabilities and gaining international backing, dealing with the complex dynamics of the WPS issue will require continual efforts, balanced diplomacy, and strategic partnerships.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. pointed out the relevance of a multifaceted approach in his 3rd State of the Nation Address (SONA), stating, "We are continuing to strengthen our defensive posture, both through developing self-reliance and through partnerships with like-minded states."
By solving these concerns in various forms, the Philippines can strike the perfect equilibrium between asserting sovereignty and promoting regional stability. As Marcos stated, "The Philippines cannot yield. The Philippines cannot waver."
(Lt. Gen. Aurelio B. Baladad (Ret) served as the 8th commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command, the 32nd commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, and the former deputy chief of staff for Operations, J3 of the AFP. He is now the VP for cooperative planning and marketing of PAFCPIC, a cooperative serving the active and retired AFP personnel.)