Philippines and China: Conflicts in the South China Sea

Dateline: May 21, 2025 — Manila

The South China Sea remains a theater of escalating tensions, with recent events underscoring the fragile state of regional stability.

In April 2025, Chinese forces raised their national flag over Sandy Cay, a disputed sandbar near the Philippine-held Thitu Island. This act coincided with joint U.S.-Philippine military exercises and was criticized by the U.S. as destabilizing and contrary to international law (Davidson, 2025).

The situation intensified in August 2024 at Sabina Shoal, where Chinese and Philippine vessels collided. The Philippines accused China of aggressive maneuvers, including ramming and blocking resupply missions, leading to significant damage to Philippine vessels (Tan & Li, 2024).

In response, the United States has reaffirmed its commitment to the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of mutual defense treaties and regional stability. Joint military exercises and patrols have been conducted to enhance interoperability and deter further aggression (AP News, 2025).

As these events unfold, the international community watches closely, urging adherence to international law and peaceful resolution of disputes.

References:

• Davidson, H. (2025, April 28). China and Philippines display competing flags on disputed South China Sea sandbank. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/28/china-philippines-flags-sandy-cay-south-china-sea
• Tan, R., & Li, L. (2024, August 18). Chinese and Philippine ships collide near disputed Sabina Shoal in South China Sea. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/08/18/china-philippines-sabina-shoal-collision/
• AP News. (2025, May 21). Philippines, U.S. hold joint maritime drills in South China Sea. https://apnews.com/article/4bd16bfa424c20152fb82e7d715851f2