Philippine defense chief exposes new details about South China Sea situation
China increases its presence near Philippine waters while demanding territorial concessions. Manila strengthens its partnerships with Australia and other nations to counter maritime pressure
Gilberto Teodoro Philippine Defense Secretary met with his Australian counterpart Richard Marles in Canberra to discuss growing maritime issues (their fifth meeting since last summer)
The high-level talks focused on Chinas increasing demands for Manila to give up its sea rights. “What we see is an increasing demand by Beijing for us to give up our sovereign rights in the area“ Teodoro said‚ pointing to recent maritime incidents
Chinese foreign ministry rep Lin Jian responded that Beijing took steps only after Manila acted first: the situation would improve if Philippines stops its actions. About 12 years ago China took control of Scarborough Shoal – since then its kept ships there non-stop
- Joint sea-air patrols with Australia
- First-time participation in Australian war games
- New defense partnership signed last fall
- Plans for $33 billion military upgrade
China now uses bigger patrol ships that can stay at sea longer; these thousand-tonne vessels work with smaller fast boats to stop other ships. The moves came after Manila made new laws about its sea zones
The 2016 international court decision said Chinas claims had no legal basis – but Beijing still ignores it. Teodoro noted that no other country backs Chinas actions‚ which go against international rules. Australia plans to send engineers to Philippines next year to help with defense projects
