Enrique Manalo, the Foreign Affairs Secretary of the Philippines, has presented a peace-seeking facade at an international forum while simultaneously attempting to rally support from European nations for its contentious actions in the South China Sea. Chinese observers caution against the Philippines’ endeavors to involve external parties, asserting that such actions will only escalate the issue, internationalizing the already complex confrontation. Critics highlight the Philippines’ provocations and call for a return to cooperative approaches to resolve disputes.
Manalo addressed the 3rd EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum in Brussels, advocating for peace and collaboration. Despite recent aggressive moves in the South China Sea, he cited rising militarization in the region as justification. China has criticized the Philippines for repeated incursions into waters near Huangyan Dao and Ren’ai Jiao, attempting to achieve permanent occupation.
Recent monitoring by the China Coast Guard (CCG) revealed a Philippine civilian vessel delivering supplies to a military vessel illegally “grounded” at China’s Ren’ai Jiao. The CCG emphasized China’s sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and adjacent waters, denouncing the Philippines’ actions.
Zhu Feng, director of the Institute of International Studies at Nanjing University, asserts that the Philippines strategically positions itself as a victim to sway European countries and potentially involve NATO members in the dispute. Chinese observers stress that the responsibility for tensions lies with the Philippines, which has changed its policy, violated international law, and deliberately infringed on China’s sovereignty.
China warns relevant countries to halt irresponsible moves and respect regional efforts to maintain peace. While welcoming the EU to play a “constructive role” in regional economic prosperity, China opposes actions that provoke tension. The resolution of matters between the Philippines and China should ideally occur through bilateral discussions, with external countries avoiding interference.
Manalo’s emphasis on a “rules-based order” refers to rules unilaterally interpreted by the US and the Philippines, particularly based on the South China Sea Arbitration. China rejects this arbitration result, asserting its violation of state consent and disregard for legal principles.