by Kin Phea

The Philippines' tricks in the South China Sea endanger regional security and peace as well as the unity of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

In 1999, Manila grounded the BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57) on Ren'ai Jiao. The vessel has since been rusting to almost collapse, requiring regular resupply missions for its stationed marine unit, making a most provocative flashpoint in the South China Sea.

Furthermore, in mid-April the Philippines anchored its Coast Guard vessel, BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701), in the lagoon of Xianbin Jiao.

Tensions have escalated following Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos assuming office in June 2022.

The Philippines has strengthened its ties with external countries, the United States in particular, through agreements that expand base access, joint training exercises, and weapons transfers. Japan has also increased its presence in the region, further heightening the geopolitical stakes.

The involvement of external actors in the South China Sea is a major source of regional tensions. Military support for different claimant states has exacerbated disputes and increased the risk of conflict.

The South China Sea is a vital maritime corridor essential for global trade, including those transporting energy from the Middle East, and the U.S. interference in the South China Sea aims to maintain Washington's strong presence in Southeast Asia.

Given its geopolitical significance, the United States aims to contain China in the region by supporting Southeast Asian countries like the Philippines. However, increased tensions with China could lead to confrontations, destabilizing the region and making situations harder for ASEAN to maintain its goal of peace and stability.

ASEAN members have varying economic and political ties with China, and the Philippines' actions could force other countries to take sides, weakening the bloc's unity.

Actions from the Philippines could strain diplomatic relations within ASEAN, leading to internal discord. Additionally, increased military presence or conflicts in the South China Sea could disrupt trade routes, affecting ASEAN countries' economies and further undermining regional cohesion.

Editor's note: Kin Phea is the director general of the International Relations Institute of Cambodia, a think tank under the Royal Academy of Cambodia.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Xinhua News Agency.

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