The Philippines’ Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro expressed confidence in the continuity of the United States’ Asia-Pacific policy following the presidential election, regardless of the election outcome. He stated that the relationship between the two countries will remain strong, based on their shared security goals and commitment to upholding international law, including in the disputed waters of the South China Sea.
Teodoro highlighted that China’s “misbehavior” in the South China Sea has made the Philippines a focal point of regional security concerns. He emphasized that if all parties adhere to the rules and refrain from misconduct, the Philippines would not be at the center of attention to such an extent.
China claims sovereignty over nearly all areas in the South China Sea. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled that China’s sovereignty claims in the South China Sea had no legal basis and supported the case brought by the Philippines. However, China refused to accept the ruling, leading to a series of maritime and aerial confrontations. As a response, the Philippines increased patrols and supply missions to protect its exclusive economic zone from encroachment.
Recent conflicts between China and Southeast Asian countries have escalated. Last week, Indonesia expelled a Chinese coast guard vessel for disrupting energy exploration, while Vietnam accused Chinese authorities of attacking its fishermen in the disputed waters this month.
Teodoro remarked on the aggressive nature of China’s expansionist agenda in the region. Despite China asserting its actions in the South China Sea as lawful, it has accused the Philippines of being the “troublemaker” in the region.
These events have heightened the risk of escalation, potentially involving the United States, which has treaty obligations to defend the Philippines in the event of an attack. Teodoro acknowledged the possibility of friction or conflict occurring.
Last year, the U.S. clarified the scope of its defense treaty commitments to the Philippines in the event of an armed attack in the South China Sea. Teodoro stated that cooperation with the U.S. extends beyond this, encompassing stability, rule of law, and joint capacity building.
The Philippines has also strengthened its relations with allies such as Japan and Australia, conducting joint exercises aimed at enhancing combat readiness, actions that China views as provocative.
Teodoro is promoting a military expansion plan that includes enhancing air defense assets, fighter jets, frigates, and patrol ships to transition the country’s defense focus from internal to external threats.
He emphasized the need for deterrence and reiterated that the only factor that could change the current situation is China changing its behavior.
This article is based on reports from Reuters.