Link to article: https://apnews.com/article/china-philippines-teodoro-note-south-china-sea-9d490192be557df2ea2284278cacd32c
China has recently accused the Philippines of “stirring up trouble” due to criticisms by Philippines Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr. over China’s increase in territorial claims in the South China Sea. Teodoro Jr. had previously been handed a note by the Chinese military at the Seoul Defence Dialogue that said “China neither accepts or recognizes the arbitration ruling” over the 2016 ruling by an arbitration panel that emphasized China’s claims had no legal foundation. Instead of disregarding the note, Teodoro challenged China and condemned the note as an act of disrespect to South Korea, the country hosting the event. In response China accuses Teodoreo of “stirring up trouble” and intentionally pivoting from regional stability.
This is important as it shows the Philippines public criticisms on stage rather than in a diplomatic setting as well as the refusal to uphold UNCLOS arbitration. This means for the region that peaceful diplomatic conductions are less likely due to rising tensions and possible escalation between both sides Navy’s over the disputed areas. This small scuffle also pushes states surrounding the South China Sea towards alliances and relations with other states such as Japan, South Korea, and the United States. My opinions on this are that Teodoro did seem to be a little arrogant especially in such a formal situation. I think Teodoro’s reaction to the note was due to general Chinese pressure though throughout the South China Sea.
Stakeholders in this dispute are likely to take caution due to the rising tensions over the region. Chinese stakeholders would likely heighten the amount of vessels surrounding the Philippines as an act of intimidation. China could also criticize the Philippines as well, deeming them unprofessional. The Philippines could either settle down due to the increased tensions or continue it’s pursuit on legitimacy over their claims in the region while continuing to criticize the Chinese government, which I think is more likely. The Philippines would also probably seek more protection from states like Japan and the United States especially if they were to speak against China more.
This is connected to the class material as it showcases the geopolitical struggles of legitimacy, particularly legitimacy over regions and territory. This entire back and forth between China and the Philippines is over the legitimacy of territorial claims within the South China Sea, which also ties back to global challenges of economic development, as the South China Sea is essential for all neighboring states to secure economic growth due to the trade going in and from. This event could also connect to violence and war in global challenges as this incident is an example of rising tensions and potential escalations due to the aggression by both sides.