At the 61st Munich Security Conference in Germany, a heated debate unfolded between Philippine and Chinese officials regarding their territorial claims in the South China Sea. Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo firmly stated that his country is committed to upholding the rules-based international order and the rule of law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He argued that adhering to international law is crucial for de-escalating tensions in the region.
Manalo highlighted that the Philippines exercises its rights within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) as defined by UNCLOS. He criticized other nations for applying their domestic laws within the Philippine EEZ, which he believes has led to increased tensions, particularly in recent years. He warned that allowing powerful nations to impose their laws on weaker countries could lead to even greater conflicts.
In response, former Chinese vice foreign minister Fu Ying expressed China’s concerns about the influence of the United States in the South China Sea disputes. She stressed that China must take responsibility for regional stability. Fu opposed the Philippines’ occupation of Second Thomas (Ayungin) Shoal and Sabina (Escoda) Shoal, arguing that it violates the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), signed by China and ASEAN members in 2002.
Fu pointed out that the DOC, which aims to ensure freedom of navigation and peaceful dispute resolution, was agreed upon with the understanding that no new territorial claims would be made. She warned that if the Philippines could claim new territories, it would set a precedent for others, including China, to do the same. She described the Philippines’ action of running the BRP Sierra Madre aground at Ayungin Shoal as ‘naughtiness’ that should not be encouraged.
Manalo countered that the Philippines’ actions within its EEZ were not provocative and noted that several countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea, support the Philippines’ stance. Singapore’s Minister for Defense Ng Eng Hen reported a significant increase in Chinese Coast Guard patrols and militia vessels in the South China Sea, indicating heightened tensions in the region.