Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took a step toward peace by instructing his armed forces to reduce tensions in the South China Sea, Reuters reports. A development that follows a recent agreement between Manila and Beijing to restore trust and better deal with maritime disputes. The discussions took place in Manila, reports News.bg.
The military has openly called on China to return the firearms seized from Philippine navy personnel, and to pay ship damage compensation amounting to approximately $1 million. General Romeo Brawner, after a meeting with President Marcos, stressed the need for China to cover the costs incurred during a supply mission in the Second Thomas Shoal.
The situation escalated last month when the Philippine Navy accused China's coast guard of aggressively intercepting their ships, resulting in the injury of a sailor.
The Philippines has maintained a presence in the Second Thomas Shoal since 1999, a strategic move to assert its maritime claims.
The possibility of seeking compensation for the medical expenses of the injured sailor was also discussed.
China, which claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, insists its actions are legal and continues to reject a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which found that Beijing's extensive maritime claims have no legal basis.
The Philippine military is exploring different strategies for its operations in the disputed waters as it seeks to continue supply missions without escalating tensions.
General Browner emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and freedom of navigation for their troops, a goal that remains paramount among these diplomatic efforts.
The Philippines is striking a delicate balance between asserting its maritime rights and seeking a peaceful resolution to ongoing disputes in the South China Sea. With renewed efforts for diplomatic relations with China, there is hope for a more stable and cooperative future in this vital region.