China’s Aggression in the West Philippine Sea: A Call to Action

In late February 2025, tensions in the West Philippine Sea escalated as incidents involving Chinese aggression against Philippine vessels and aircraft gained international attention. On February 26, Victor Andres C. Manhit, a prominent commentator, condemned China’s reckless actions, particularly an alarming event on February 18 when a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) helicopter aggressively approached a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) aircraft during a lawful maritime patrol. This incident, described as reckless and hostile, exemplified China’s continued disregard for international law.

As the situation unfolded, former Bayan Muna Representative Neri Colmenares called on the Philippine government to bolster maritime patrols on March 2, following China’s dubious claim that Palawan had once belonged to them. He characterized such assertions as delusional and urged for a coordinated response to protect Philippine sovereignty in the region. Reports indicated that 19 Chinese military and coast guard vessels were monitored across key maritime features in the West Philippine Sea during February, amplifying concerns over China’s assertive presence in the area. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines reiterated its stance, confirming Palawan’s longstanding ties to Filipino history and the absence of any substantive Chinese claims.

In a related development, diplomatic tensions further escalated with Chinese officials issuing stark warnings to the US Secretary of State regarding the Philippines and the situation surrounding Taiwan. During a recent meeting, Chinese diplomats reiterated their stance on what they describe as the “erroneous involvement” of the US in regional disputes, cautioning against “meddling” in China’s sovereignty over Taiwan and its claims in the South China Sea. “We expect the US to respect China’s territorial integrity and not take sides in this family dispute,” stated a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry after the talks.

Compounding these tensions, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that between February 28 and March 4, the region experienced intermittent rain and thunderstorms due to the prevailing northeast monsoon, potentially complicating naval operations for both Philippine and Chinese vessels. Additionally, seismic activity kept authorities vigilant, as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) recorded minor tremors in Luzon, with magnitudes ranging from 3.0 to 4.2. Though no damage or casualties were reported, PHIVOLCS officials emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness amid growing geopolitical tensions.

On March 3, Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega emphasized the need for candidates in the upcoming elections to take a strong pro-Philippines stance against external threats, namely China’s territorial ambitions. In the same vein, Philippine Ambassador to the United States, Jose Manuel Romualdez, outlined ongoing efforts to enhance defense capabilities and bolster alliances with global partners.

By March 4, a series of articles highlighted the Philippine Navy’s robust response to misinformation spread by Chinese social media regarding the historical validity of Palawan. Amidst these developments, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government’s unwavering determination to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty. As local and international observers continue to monitor the evolving situation in the West Philippine Sea, they remain acutely aware that any miscalculation could lead to a crisis with far-reaching implications across the region.

Sources:

• Manhit, Victor Andres C. “Defying China’s Reckless Actions in the West Philippine Sea.” BusinessWorld Online, 26 Feb. 2025.
• Reyes, Ahlette C. “Southern Leyte Town Stands Firm for West Philippine Sea.” Philippine Information Agency, 27 Feb. 2025.
• Argosino, Faith. “Gov’t Urged to Increase Patrols in WPS After China’s Claim on Palawan.” INQUIRER.net, 2 Mar. 2025.
• Lalu, Gabriel Pabico. “Senate Bets Who Don’t Speak vs China Intrusion Not Pro-PH – Ortega.” INQUIRER.net, 3 Mar. 2025.
• Mangosing, Frances. “PH Envoy: Defense Is Each Country’s Call.” Philippine Daily Inquirer, 4 Mar. 2025.
• Mendoza, John Eric. “Billowing Smoke from BRP Sierra Madre Part of Fire Drill – Navy.” INQUIRER.net, 4 Mar. 2025.
• Mendoza, John Eric. “19 Chinese Vessels Spotted in Ayungin, Panatag Shoal in February.” INQUIRER.net, 4 Mar. 2025.
• Mendoza, John Eric. “West PH Sea: Navy Slams ‘Absurd, Baseless’ China Social Media Claim on Palawan.” INQUIRER.net, 4 Mar. 2025.
• Escosio, Jan. “Tolentino Urges Filipinos: Discover, Be Proud of Palawan.” INQUIRER.net, 4 Mar. 2025.
• “PBBM’s West Philippine Sea Stand: ‘Filipinos Do Not Yield.’” Philippine News Agency, 4 Mar. 2025.