China Publicizes Unwritten Agreement with Philippines Over South China Sea Islands, Tensions Rise

In recent news, a purported 2016 agreement between China and the Philippines over access to South China Sea islands has been brought to light, causing a stir in the disputed region. China claims that the Philippines reneged on the agreement, leading to ongoing disputes at sea. Let’s delve deeper into the details and responses from key figures.

China’s Allegations and Response

The Chinese Embassy in Manila publicized a “temporary special arrangement,” which supposedly allowed small-scale fishing around the islands but restricted access by military and official planes and ships to the 12 nautical mile limit of territorial waters. It stated that the Philippines’ failure to uphold the agreement led to ceaseless disputes at sea.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has denied knowledge of any such secret agreement, asserting that if proven, it would be an impeachable offense under the country’s constitution. Meanwhile, Duterte hinted at an agreement during his visit to Beijing, but without providing specific details.

Reactions from Key Figures

When questioned about the alleged secret agreement, Marcos stated that he was not aware of it and, if in existence, he would rescind it. Duterte, on the other hand, acknowledged an agreement to maintain “the status quo” in the disputed waters to prevent conflict. However, he emphasized that there was no written agreement and that it was aimed at maintaining peace.

House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has ordered an investigation into what some are calling a “gentleman’s agreement,” seeking clarity on the matter and its implications.

International Involvement and Disputes

Amid the South China Sea tensions, the U.S. has reiterated its obligation to defend the Philippines, its oldest treaty ally in Asia, in the event of an armed attack. The U.S. has conducted freedom of navigation operations in the region, challenging China’s claims despite not having direct territorial claims in the area.

It’s important to note that apart from China and the Philippines, other nations such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei also have overlapping claims in the South China Sea, which holds significant resources including fishing stocks, gas, and oil.

Implications and Ongoing Conflicts

The intensifying disputes between China and the Philippines, as well as the involvement of other claimant nations, have raised concerns about the potential for further escalations and the impact on trade routes in the region. Skirmishes, including the reported use of water cannons and accusations of dangerous maneuvering, have underscored the volatility of the situation.

As the allegations and responses unfold, the South China Sea continues to be a focal point of geopolitical tensions and strategic interests, with implications that extend beyond the immediate parties involved.