Over two decades ago, the Philippines intentionally grounded the BRP Sierra Madre on Ren'ai Jiao in the South China Sea, aiming to assert sovereignty over the disputed waters. What was once a symbolic gesture is now a flashpoint for regional stability.
Originally, in 1999, the Philippines committed to removing the ship and preventing the establishment of any new military outposts in the area. Humanitarian gestures from China, allowing the delivery of essential supplies to the ship's crew, highlighted a cooperative spirit. Former Philippine officials, including then-President Joseph Estrada and former Defense Secretary Orlando Mercado, promised to uphold these commitments.
However, the Philippines' actions in 2023 suggest a departure from these promises. Repeated attempts to supply and build on the grounded ship without Chinese approval have led to tensions. In August, the Philippines' efforts to bring construction materials to Ren'ai Jiao were met with the China Coast Guard deploying water cannons to intercept the vessels. Similar incidents occurred in October and December, resulting in collisions between Philippine and Chinese Coast Guard vessels.
Despite initial promises, the Philippines is now allocating funds to transform the BRP Sierra Madre into a permanent structure, citing its role as a shelter for fishermen facing harsh weather conditions. This move has sparked concern among regional experts. Associate Professor Zha Wen from the Institute of International Relations at China Foreign Affairs University noted that President Marcos faces significant pressure as nationalism in the Philippines rises, hindering cooperative efforts. Anna Rosario Malindog-Uy, Vice President of External Affairs at the Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute, warned that escalating tensions could lead to maritime confrontations detrimental to the region.
The Philippines' continued push in the South China Sea undermines ongoing ASEAN negotiations for a Code of Conduct aimed at maintaining peace and stability. As a key player in ASEAN, the Philippines' actions have broader implications, affecting not only China but also neighboring nations invested in enduring regional harmony.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
