September 8, 2025

On September 3, 2025, China solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. This was not merely a ceremonial recollection of historical struggles; it was a powerful reaffirmation of China's commitment to the international system centered on the UN and the rules-based global order that emerged from the ashes of World War II. 

Today, amid profound global changes, China continues to promote this vision through the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, Global Civilization Initiative and Global Governance Initiative - each reflecting a dedication to building a community with a shared future for humanity. 

It is against this backdrop of reflection and reaffirmation that the recent actions of the Philippines in the South China Sea are not only provocative but dangerously revisionist. By conducting joint military exercises and patrols with the US, Australia, Canada and other external powers, Manila is actively destabilizing the region, undermining the spirit of the post-war order, and gambling with regional peace for questionable geopolitical gains.

The timing and nature of these activities are far from coincidental. While China and other countries honored the memory of those who fought and died to uphold a world free from aggression and expansionism, the Philippines chose to stage military demonstrations that embody the very opposite of this ideal. These actions reveal a deliberate attempt to militarize the South China Sea, internationalize bilateral disputes and draw extra-regional powers into what should be a zone of dialogue and cooperation.

Manila's strategy is multi-layered and increasingly aggressive. In recent months, the Philippines has systematically courted foreign military presence under the guise of "partnership" and "interoperability." Even more alarmingly, the Philippine chief of staff instructed troops to prepare for a possible "invasion" of Taiwan, explicitly linking the South China Sea issues with the highly sensitive Taiwan question. This conflation is a dangerous rhetorical and strategic escalation. It suggests that Manila is not merely protecting its perceived interests but actively participating in a broader coalition aimed at containing China.

At the same time, the Philippines has engaged in relentless narrative-building, accusing China of "bullying" and "expansionism" while ignoring similar actions by other claimants. This selective securitization is meant to isolate China, rally regional and international support, and create a false moral equivalence between China's lawful maritime activities and Manila's militarized posturing.

Such tactics are not just dishonest - They are deeply irresponsible. They fuel misunderstanding, escalate tensions, and worst of all, they undermine the very system of international rules and norms that the Philippines claims to uphold.

China's position, by contrast, is rooted in history, law and a consistent commitment to peace. China's sovereignty over the South China Sea islands and their adjacent waters is well-documented through centuries of administration and historical precedent. After Japan's defeat in 1945, China reclaimed its territories in accordance with the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation - foundational documents of the post-war international order. Since then, China has exercised jurisdiction through patrols, resource development, scientific research and civilian administration - all peaceful and legitimate acts of a sovereign state.

China has advocated for shelving differences and joint development, actively participated in consultations with ASEAN on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, and promoted functional cooperation in areas like marine environmental protection, scientific research and emergency response. China will not waver in protecting its rights and interests, but it remains open to peaceful consultation. The future of the South China Sea should be decided by the nations of the region - through diplomacy, not drills, through cooperation, not coercion. Manila must ask itself whether it wishes to be remembered as a provocateur or as a partner. 

If the Philippines truly values the rule of law and regional peace, it should cease its militarized activities, stop courting foreign intervention and return to the negotiating table. 

The world is watching, and history will judge.

Ding Duo is the director of the Center for International and Regional Studies, National Institute for South China Sea Studies.

Link:https://enapp.globaltimes.cn/article/1342867