Continued Tensions in the West Philippine Sea: The World Takes Notice

Recent events have once again brought the West Philippine Sea dispute into the spotlight, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the Philippines and China. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made headlines when he claimed that the activities in the South China Sea were just “theatre” staged by external forces. This statement was met with strong backlash from the Philippine government, particularly the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), which asserted that the Philippines is an independent nation acting in its own interest, not at the behest of others.

Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard, also weighed in on the situation. Using an AI tool called Grok, he posed a question about the legality of China’s nine-dash line claims over the South China Sea, which an international court ruled to be invalid back in 2016. It seems that despite this landmark ruling, China continues to ignore the facts, acting as if its claims are legitimate and putting everyone to sleep with their repetitive antics.

Adding to the chorus of international criticism, Slovenia recently expressed its support for the Philippines. Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon confirmed the importance of upholding international law and reaffirmed the 2016 arbitral ruling that rejected China’s grand claims. Fajon described the maneuvers by China in the West Philippine Sea as “dangerous” and contrary to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This shows that even countries in Europe are watching and are tired of China’s disruptive play.

The Philippine government welcomed this international support, stating that it reinforces the nation’s efforts to stand up against China’s aggressive behavior. The National Maritime Council echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that they are not alone in fighting for their rights in this maritime territory. They clearly stated, “No amount of coercion or disinformation can distort the real issue of China’s continuing illegal actions.”

In a region so vital for global trade and security, the actions of China are a troubling reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by smaller nations. The Philippines, with the backing of international allies like Slovenia, Japan, and the United States, is determined to uphold the rule of law and ensure peace in the West Philippine Sea, while putting up with China’s antics as best as it can.

Post Script:

Due to the current situation involving former President Rodrigo Duterte being in custody in the Netherlands and facing charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC), reports of events in the West Philippine Sea may be limited as the government deals with these new political challenges.

Advisory Update: Australia Issues Travel Warning for Philippines

On March 13, 2025, the Australian government issued a travel advisory for its citizens visiting the Philippines, citing significant security concerns. Travelers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution throughout the country due to threats of terrorism and violent crime, as well as an increased risk of demonstrations and civil unrest following recent events. The advisory warns against protests and large gatherings, which could potentially escalate into violence. It emphasizes that terrorist attacks may occur in locations such as airports, public transportation, hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, and tourist areas. Additionally, it strongly advises against travel to central and western Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula and Sulu Archipelago, due to a very high threat of terrorism and kidnapping.

Sources:

1. Mabasa, Roy C. “PH Rejects Chinese Minister’s ‘Chess Pieces’ Comment on South China Sea.” POLITIKO, 10 Mar. 2025, http://www.politiko.com.ph.
2. Halili, Adrian H. “Philippines Rejects China’s ‘Shadow Play’ Remarks on South China Sea.” BusinessWorld Online, 10 Mar. 2025, http://www.businessworldonline.com.
3. Chi, Cristina. “Philippines Tells China: Maritime Actions Not ‘Theatre’ but Defense of Sovereign Rights.” Philstar, 10 Mar. 2025, http://www.philstar.com.
4. “DFA to Wang Yi: PH an Independent State, Actions Not ‘Staged’ by Other Countries.” GMA Integrated News, 10 Mar. 2025, http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/938755/dfa-to-wang-yi-ph-an-independent-state-actions-not-staged-by-other-countries/story/.
5. Price, Nicholas. “Commodore Tarriela Reveals Latest WPS Ally: X’s Grok.” Daily Tribune, 13 Mar. 2025, http://www.tribune.net.ph/2025/03/13/commodore-tarriela-reveals-latest-wps-ally-xs-grok/.
6. Chi, Cristina. “Slovenia Affirms 2016 Arbitral Ruling; Philippines Welcomes Support.” Philstar, 13 Mar. 2025, http://www.philstar.com.
7. GMA Integrated News. “Australia Issues Travel Advisory Against PH Amid Security Concerns.” GMA Network Inc., 13 Mar. 2025, www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/939206/australia-issues-travel-advisory-against-ph-amid-security-concerns/story/.