Philippines Seeks Greater Regional Cooperation on South China Sea Disputes

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed concerns over China's heightened assertiveness in the disputed waters, prompting Manila to proactively pursue a separate code of conduct with countries sharing territorial conflicts within ASEAN.

Addressing the slow progress of the code of conduct negotiations between China and ASEAN, Marcos highlighted the urgency to collaborate with allies amid the escalating situation. Marcos revealed efforts to establish a distinct code involving Vietnam and Malaysia, aiming to extend this initiative to other ASEAN nations.

Despite recent discussions between Marcos and Chinese leader Xi Jinping on reducing tensions in contested waters, China's aggressive actions, particularly in Philippine waters, remain a focal concern. Incidents involving Chinese interference with Philippine resupply missions at Second Thomas Shoal and the use of force to obstruct supply flotillas underscore the intensifying situation.

Marcos emphasized China's expanding interest in atolls closer to the Philippines' coast, expressing a worsening scenario rather than improvement. Given the challenges faced by ASEAN in addressing South China Sea disputes, including varying member state interests and China's aggressive stance against rival claimants, Marcos' call for regional cooperation aligns with the need for a strategic approach.