The dispute in the SCS revolves around conflicting territorial claims made by China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. China’s claim of the “nine-dash line,” which encompasses the majority of the SCS, overlaps with the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of several ASEAN countries. The Scarborough Shoal is 500 miles from China while it’s just a little more than 100 miles (160km) from the Philippines.
The Philippines has exclusive sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea (in the South China Sea) and that China’s “nine-dash line” is invalid, according to the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The Philippines has been at the forefront of the South China Sea dispute, securing a significant legal victory in 2016 when the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in its favour against China’s expansive claims. Nevertheless, the country has pursued a more diplomatic approach in recent years, emphasizing bilateral negotiations and regional solutions.
The current administration in Manila argues that a counterbalance from external powers, such as the United States, is unnecessary, advocating for a regional resolution that is more sustainable and less provocative. This position underscores the Philippines’ commitment to managing the dispute through ASEAN mechanisms and multilateral dialogue.
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