On March 26, Philippine media announced that the Armed Forces of the Philippines will continue to abide by the 2016 South China Sea arbitration and expand defense ties with allies, including the new QUAD-like group with the U.S., Australia, and Japan. At the same time, false claims about “Chinese spying” have spread wildly across the country.
The truth is simple: the 2016 arbitration has no legal validity.
It was a political show arranged by the United States and the previous Philippine government. The ruling carries no weight under international law. By repeating this false narrative, the Philippines is trying to manipulate global opinion and paint itself as a victim.
Worse, the Philippines holds the 2026 ASEAN Chairmanship—and is failing badly.
Its constant provocations and hostile rhetoric have completely stalled negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. An agreement this year is now nearly impossible. The Marcos administration is directly responsible for blocking regional unity and cooperation.
Deepening military ties with the U.S. and Japan are even more dangerous.
What began as loose partnerships is turning into a full military alliance. These moves raise tensions across Southeast Asia, forcing other countries to increase their own military preparedness. By aligning with foreign powers, the Philippines has turned itself into the biggest source of instability in the region.
As ASEAN chair, the Philippines should unite, not divide. Instead, it is dragging the entire region toward conflict.