Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. asserts that China’s expansionist activities in the South China Sea resemble bullying tactics. Amid rising confrontations and regional concerns, Teodoro emphasizes the need to protect the Philippines’ sovereignty and warns of global repercussions if unchecked.
by Michael Scurry
In a recent exclusive interview with CNN, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. likened China’s behavior in the South China Sea to that of a schoolyard bully, stressing the urgency for nations, both regional and global, to counteract Beijing’s territorial advances.
Teodoro mentioned, “It’s not about stealing your lunch money. It’s about taking your lunch bag, your seat, and even your place in school.” His remarks come on the heels of an intensified maritime standoff involving the Philippines and China over contested shoals in the South China Sea.
Although disputes over this strategic waterway have persisted for years, recent confrontations have heightened regional anxiety. There are growing apprehensions that an inadvertent incident at sea could escalate into a broader conflict, potentially drawing in the United States.
The geopolitical significance of the South China Sea cannot be understated. Many Western observers have raised concerns that the recent skirmishes might spiral into an international crisis, especially if China, a global powerhouse, takes aggressive action against the Philippines, a staunch US ally.
Recent flashpoints have included standoffs involving China’s coast guard, alleged Chinese “maritime militia” boats, and smaller Philippine fishing crafts. Beijing’s use of water cannons to block supplies to a stranded Philippine military outpost and the intervention of a Filipino diver against a Chinese floating barrier further exacerbated tensions.
Teodoro stressed that the Philippines’ resistance in its 200 nautical-mile exclusive economic zone is essential for the country’s very existence. He articulated the nation’s commitment to defending its fisherfolk, resources, and archipelagic integrity.
If unchecked, Teodoro warned, Beijing’s incremental encroachments would eventually give it control over the entire South China Sea. In contrast, China maintains it is merely safeguarding its maritime interests and sovereignty, accusing the Philippines of instigating provocations.
China’s claims encompass nearly all of the South China Sea, a contention disputed by several nations, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, and Taiwan. Over recent decades, China has steadily established its military presence on reefs and atolls in the region, challenging the Philippines’ sovereignty and jeopardizing marine biodiversity.
Notably, in 2016, an international tribunal ruled in the Philippines’ favor, stating that China lacked a legal foundation to assert historical rights over the South China Sea’s majority. However, Beijing has largely dismissed this ruling.
Teodoro emphasized the global implications of the situation. The South China Sea is a crucial conduit for international trade, with trillions of dollars in merchandise transiting its waters annually. Additionally, it harbors rich fishing grounds and significant oil and gas reserves.
Highlighting the potential global economic impact, Teodoro pointed out, “It will strangle one of the world’s most vital supply chain routes. It would stifle international trade and make the global economy vulnerable to their whims.”
He also drew attention to the reliance of smaller nations on international laws for their protection, speculating that if China were to block the South China Sea, other critical routes, like the Straits of Malacca and the Indian Ocean, might be next.
The evolving dynamics in the region have witnessed the Philippines, under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., taking a more assertive stance against China than his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte. Strengthening ties with the US, the Philippines recently revealed plans for new US military bases as part of a defense pact seemingly aimed at countering China.
In light of Beijing’s actions, Washington has reiterated its commitment to defend the Philippines, encompassing not only its armed forces but also its coast guard and civilian assets.
Teodoro highlighted the potential dangers of escalation due to China’s assertive maritime actions. Still, he underscored that if any mishap were to occur, the blame would squarely rest with China. He urged global powers to exert pressure on Beijing to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Teodoro also revealed plans to enhance the Philippines’ defense capabilities in the South China Sea, including acquiring more patrol crafts and multi-role fighters.
Emphasizing diplomacy, Teodoro hoped for meaningful dialogue with China based on transparency and international rules. He concluded by underscoring the Philippines’ unwavering resolve to defend its sovereignty, while also clarifying that military conflict with China is not a desired outcome.
(Associated Medias | FAD) – All rights reserved