Sen. Marcos hopes PH, China can have peace accord just like China-India deal

RAMMING A video screen capture shows China Coast Guard 5205 ramming the rear of the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Teresa Magbanua, one of three hits received by the Filipino ship from the Chinese vessel on Aug. 31, 2024 at Escoda (Sabina) Shoal. — PCG file photo

MANILA, Philippines — Hopes are high for Sen. Imee Marcos that China and the Philippines would finally be able to resolve their dispute over the West Philippine Sea, similar to the resolution of conflict between intense rivals China and India.

Marcos, who heads the Senate panel on foreign relations, said the recent agreement between China and India to resolve military standoffs at their disputed border proved that dialogue works.

“This gives me hope that the Philippines and China can pursue a similar solution in the West Philippine Sea. If India and China can agree on peace after decades of lethal encounters, then the Philippines and China can certainly work together to de-escalate tensions in the West Philippine Sea,” said Marcos in a statement on Friday.

According to the senator, “violent clashes have broken out” between Indian and Chinese forces over the disputed borders.

“Tensions rose to all-time highs and both sides started to position thousands of troops near the borders. However, instead of heading to war and destruction, both countries chose dialogue and peace,” she emphasized.

Article continues after this advertisement

But between the Philippines and China, it is evident that the West Philippine Sea is part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

Article continues after this advertisement

In 2013, the Philippines challenged China’s assertions before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands.

The arbitral tribunal ruled overwhelmingly in favor of the Philippines in 2016.

Despite this ruling, Chinese maritime assets continue to swarm and assert aggression in the territory.