27 August 2025
The South China Sea, a vast body of water rich in natural resources and critical for global trade, has long been a stage for disputes between China and its Southeast Asian neighbors. Among these, the Philippines has faced the brunt of Chinese aggression, experiencing repeated harassment of its vessels and fishermen. The situation has escalated into a major geopolitical flashpoint, with implications for international law, regional stability, and the global economy.
China’s Expansive Maritime Claims
At the center of the tension lies Beijing’s sweeping claim to almost the entire South China Sea, based on the so-called “nine-dash line.” This self-drawn boundary covers nearly 90% of the sea, overlapping with the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and even Taiwan.
In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague delivered a landmark ruling in favor of the Philippines, declaring that China’s historical claims had “no legal basis.” It also ruled that many of China’s artificial islands could not generate EEZs. Yet, China rejected the verdict outright, dismissing it as “null and void” and continuing its illegal activities unabated.
Patterns of Harassment
Since the ruling, the Philippines has documented numerous incidents that highlight China’s aggressive tactics:
- Water Cannon Attacks: In several high-profile cases, Chinese Coast Guard ships used powerful water cannons against Philippine supply vessels attempting to reach the BRP Sierra Madre, a rusting warship grounded on Second Thomas Shoal and manned by Filipino troops. These attacks damaged boats and injured crew members.
- Dangerous Maneuvers: Chinese vessels have repeatedly engaged in ramming, blocking, and shadowing Philippine boats. Such maneuvers risk collisions in contested waters, endangering lives and escalating the chances of conflict.
- Fishing Ground Blockades: Filipino fishermen frequently report being chased away from traditional fishing areas such as Scarborough Shoal and Second Thomas Shoal. Many describe being confronted by armed Chinese maritime militia disguised as fishing boats.
- Laser Incidents: In early 2023, Manila accused a Chinese ship of pointing a military-grade laser at a Philippine coast guard vessel, temporarily blinding its crew.
These actions demonstrate a pattern of harassment designed to intimidate, assert control, and normalize Chinese dominance in disputed waters.
The Human Impact
Beyond diplomatic notes and military maneuvers, the most affected are ordinary Filipinos—particularly fishermen. For centuries, fishing communities in provinces such as Zambales and Palawan have relied on the South China Sea for their livelihood.
Today, many say their catch has declined not only because of Chinese overfishing but also because Chinese ships block access to rich fishing grounds. Some fishermen report being threatened at gunpoint, while others have had equipment confiscated. As a result, livelihoods are disrupted, and communities are forced into economic uncertainty.
Manila’s Shifting Strategy
Under former President Rodrigo Duterte, the Philippines sought closer economic ties with Beijing, often downplaying maritime confrontations., but China did not soften its stance.
(See our article “How The Philippines’ Duterte Found Out The Hard Way That Lackeying To China Makes Things Worse “
Critics accused him of “appeasing” China at the expense of sovereignty.
However, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken a firmer line. Since assuming office in 2022, he has:
- Strengthened alliances: Expanded joint military exercises with the United States, Japan, and Australia.
- Filed protests: Issued dozens of diplomatic protests against Chinese actions.
- Increased patrols: Deployed more coast guard and naval vessels to contested areas.
- Internationalized the issue: Highlighted the harassment at global forums like the UN, gaining support from allies and partners.
Marcos has emphasized that the Philippines will not yield “even one square inch of territory” and vowed to uphold the 2016 PCA ruling.
Global Implications
The dispute is not only a bilateral issue between Manila and Beijing. The South China Sea carries immense global significance:
- Trade Artery: Roughly $3.4 trillion worth of goods pass through these waters each year, making it one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.
- Energy Resources: The sea is believed to hold vast reserves of oil and natural gas, critical for regional energy security.
- Strategic Value: Whoever controls the South China Sea holds a significant military and economic advantage in Asia.
The United States has repeatedly affirmed that its 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines applies to attacks on Philippine forces in the South China Sea. This means any armed escalation could draw Washington directly into conflict with Beijing.
Japan, Australia, the European Union, and even smaller states like Canada have expressed concern, backing Manila’s call for respect for international law. ASEAN, however, remains divided, with countries like Cambodia and Laos often leaning toward China.
