Chinese state media has issued a warning to the Philippines, a United States ally, regarding tensions in the South China Sea. The warning came after an incident where a Philippine supply boat and its coast guard escorts were met with a blockade and water cannon attacks by China near Second Thomas Shoal. Despite being within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, China claims sovereignty over the area. The Global Times, a Chinese newspaper, defended China’s actions as legal and necessary to defend its rights.
The Philippines responded by stating they would implement countermeasures against China’s aggressive actions. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. mentioned rolling out proportionate and deliberate responses. The Global Times criticized the U.S. for supporting the Philippines, claiming it fuels the country’s provocative behavior against a stronger opponent. U.S. Department of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed the Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines, extending support to the country in the South China Sea.
The Chinese newspaper warned the Philippines that the promises made by the U.S. are not a guarantee of protection, and if conflict were to break out, it would be Manila that would suffer losses. The editorial highlighted the strained relations between China and the Philippines, urging both parties to exercise restraint. It emphasized China’s history of patience and restraint towards the Philippines and called for rationality and sobriety in their relations.
China blamed the Philippines for the escalation of tensions in the South China Sea and emphasized the need for all parties to act with caution to maintain regional peace and stability. The Global Times emphasized the critical juncture in China-Philippines relations and urged the Philippines to carefully consider their actions moving forward. Newsweek reached out to both Chinese and Filipino authorities for comments on the situation but did not receive a response at the time of reporting. The ongoing tensions in the South China Sea continue to be a point of concern for regional stability.
