President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines has announced that the country will implement proportionate and reasonable countermeasures against China's aggressive actions in the South China Sea. Marcos emphasized that the Philippines seeks no conflict but will not tolerate silence, submission, or subservience.
The Philippines has repeatedly condemned China's coastguard and maritime militia for their aggressive behavior around disputed features within Manila's exclusive economic zone. The latest incident involved China using water cannon to disrupt a Philippine resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea as its own and has accused the Philippines of encroaching on its territory. However, the Philippines maintains that its actions are lawful and necessary to protect its sovereignty and jurisdiction.
Marcos has met with defense and security officials and consulted with international allies. He has received offers of assistance to protect Philippine sovereignty and ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
The deterioration in relations with China comes as Marcos seeks to strengthen defense ties with the United States. The U.S. has reaffirmed its commitment to a mutual defense treaty with the Philippines and criticized China's actions at the Second Thomas Shoal. The treaty obligates both countries to defend each other in the event of an attack, including incidents involving coastguard, civilian, and military vessels in the South China Sea.