Philippines President Warns of Potential Conflict with China in South China Sea

In a stern warning at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. cautioned against escalating tensions with China in the South China Sea, highlighting the risk of violence amidst increased confrontations with Chinese boats around contested shoals.

Marcos emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that any fatal incident involving Filipino citizens due to China’s actions could push the boundaries toward an act of war. He labeled such an event as crossing the Rubicon, signaling a potential red line for the Philippines.

The Philippines, along with China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, lays claim to parts of the strategically significant South China Sea. With the Philippines being a treaty ally of the United States, Marcos underscored the importance of the US military presence in Southeast Asia, characterizing it as crucial for regional peace.

The United States has reiterated its commitment to defending the Philippines in the disputed maritime region, as evidenced by the recent joint military exercise dubbed the “Balikatan exercise.” Notably, the 2024 drills marked the first instance of such exercises taking place outside of Philippine territorial waters, showcasing the deepening military cooperation between the two nations.