Manila is taking Beijing to court over the South China Sea again

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| Published March 25, 2025

The Philippines is preparing to launch a second international arbitration case against China, challenging Beijing’s expansive claims and activities in the South China Sea. This move underscores escalating tensions and Manila’s commitment to defending its maritime sovereignty.

Background

In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines, declaring China’s “nine-dash line” claim over the South China Sea as lacking legal basis under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Despite this ruling, China has intensified its presence and activities in the disputed waters, leading to increased confrontations with Philippine forces.

Recent Developments

Environmental Concerns: The Philippine government is gathering evidence to file a case against China for alleged environmental damage within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Activities such as the destruction of coral reefs and harvesting of giant clams have raised significant ecological concerns. Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla emphasized the urgency of addressing these violations and is exploring appropriate international legal platforms for the case.

Diplomatic Efforts: Despite filing over 590 diplomatic protests in nearly a decade, China’s assertive actions have persisted. This has prompted Philippine officials to consider legal avenues to deter further aggression. Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has advocated for a multilateral approach, encouraging other nations to join in holding China accountable.

Military and Political Stance: Philippine defense and naval officials have openly criticized China’s maritime claims. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro labeled Beijing’s assertions as “fiction and lie,” calling for stronger defense measures and alliances. Similarly, the Philippine Navy has dismissed China’s “10-dash line” claim as a “big joke,” reflecting the administration’s firm stance against China’s expansive territorial assertions.

International Implications

The Philippines’ pursuit of a new arbitration case highlights the broader geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea, a vital maritime corridor through which over $3 trillion in trade passes annually. The outcome of this legal challenge could influence regional dynamics and set precedents for international maritime law.

Conclusion

As Manila prepares to confront Beijing on the international stage once more, the global community watches closely. The Philippines’ actions underscore the complexities of territorial disputes and the ongoing struggle for sovereignty and environmental preservation in one of the world’s most contested regions.