Strategic alliance for peaceful deterrence
On Chinese television, the image of China Coast Guard (CCG) officers unfurling the Chinese flag on Sandy Cay tried to push yet another false narrative. China is insisting that Sandy Cay is an integral part of its Nansha Islands. Worse, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Guo Jiakun, said China was legally conducting enforcement activities to counter illegal encroachments by the Philippines, thereby safeguarding national territorial sovereignty and ensuring compliance with the South China Sea Code of Conduct.
But our National Security Council soon detailed an inter-agency maritime operation implemented by the Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Philippine National Police-Maritime Group at Pag-asa Cay 1, 2, and 3 to assert maritime jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea.
They identified the illegal presence of the CCG and Chinese Maritime Militia vessels near Cay-2 and Cay-3. In response, a composite contingent of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea from our Navy, Coast Guard, and Police Maritime Group raised the country’s flag on Sandy Cay.
The Presidential Communications Office affirmed that this act clearly demonstrates President Marcos’ unwavering commitment to defend Philippine sovereignty, consistent with his pledge that not an inch of territory or maritime jurisdiction will be surrendered—especially in the face of threats in the West Philippine Sea.
The recent events on Sandy Cay show that the battle for territorial integrity transcends physical claims. A few days earlier, it was revealed that the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines had hired a local marketing firm to deploy “keyboard warriors” to foster information attacking the Philippine government and its officials. China is clearly using disinformation to weaken the resolve of Filipinos and create confusion, making it seem like our defenders have either given up or lost control.
Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, the 40th Balikatan Exercises between the Philippines and the United States began on April 21. The same Chinese spokesperson had earlier criticized the ongoing exercises, saying they undermine regional strategic stability and economic prospects. But the Balikatan is not only bilateral and does not just involve the Philippines and the United States. More than 17,000 personnel from 20 nations are participating, a testament to the common commitment of these nations to the rules-based international order.
Joining the Balikatan exercises are troops from Japan and Australia, while observers come from over a dozen countries, including Brunei, Canada, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Poland, India, Indonesia, Lithuania, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam. The exercises are not meant to target any country, but are part of a strategic effort by the international community to uphold a rules-based order for a peaceful and stable region. It is a manifestation of the ironclad alliance between the Philippines and the United States, and strong partnerships with like-minded nations.
Japan, a key like-minded partner, recently reaffirmed its ties with the Philippines during Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru’s visit to Manila. The official emphasized the countries’ longstanding defense and economic relationship, grounded in a shared commitment to regional stability and mutual growth. Ishiba also voiced Japan’s support for the Philippines’ goal of reaching upper middle-income status, citing major infrastructure projects like the North-South Commuter Railway, and the role of 1,600 Japan-based firms in health care and education. He also noted the growing importance of the partnership amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
The signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement in July 2024 further solidifies both nations’ intent to deepen defense cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Other key developments include a January 2025 trilateral video conference, and visits from Japan’s Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi and Defense Minister Nakatani Gen.
In yet another strategic partnership, the visiting forces agreement with New Zealand was signed last week. Witnessed by President Marcos and New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins, the agreement builds on existing defense ties and marks a significant step forward in bilateral security relations. The Philippines is bolstering its external defense through a two-pronged strategy: building stronger national defense capabilities and deepening alliances with like-minded nations. While we fortify our own defenses, we also stand shoulder to shoulder with partners who share our commitment to peace and regional stability.
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Dindo Manhit is the founder and CEO of Stratbase Group.
