Perturbed by the possibility of a major escalation, Filipino officials have struggled to maintain a consistent stance. Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jnr has refuted claims that the recent clash with China was a misunderstanding, emphasizing that it was an aggressive and illegal use of force.
While President Marcos has sought a middle ground, refusing to yield to any foreign power, the dithering statements from Philippine officials reflect fears of escalation and doubts about America’s commitment to aid the country.
Washington and Manila are facing pressure to upgrade their alliance to prevent further escalations, especially at Second Thomas Shoal. However, historical ambiguities in defense obligations have caused Filipino people to question the reliability of the US as an ally.
Recent administrations have reassured that any attack on Philippine troops will be covered by the Mutual Defence Treaty. But China’s “grey zone” actions pose challenges, and the US has yet to provide advanced weaponry to the Philippines.
To maintain deterrence, the US may need to clarify the treaty’s parameters and provide defense assets to the Philippines, ultimately strengthening joint patrols and missions to protect Filipino interests in the South China Sea.
America’s credibility as an ally is under scrutiny amidst China’s attempts to alter the regional status quo.
Richard Heydarian is a Manila-based academic and author of Asia’s New Battlefield: US, China and the Struggle for Western Pacific, and the forthcoming Duterte’s Rise
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