Philippine defense chief deems China as top peace disruptor, seeks stronger condemnation

The Philippine defense chief recently labeled China as “the biggest disruptor” of peace in Southeast Asia, urging stronger international condemnation of its aggression in the South China Sea. This statement follows an incident where China blocked Philippine vessels from delivering supplies to a Coast Guard ship at the Sabina Shoal.

During an international military conference in Manila, Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Junior emphasized China’s disruptive role in the region. He stressed the need for collective multilateral action to counter China’s assertive behavior in disputed waters.

Teodoro called for a UN Security Council resolution to stop Chinese aggression but acknowledged the challenges. He also urged ASEAN to play a more active role in responding to China’s activities in the South China Sea.

The tensions between China and the Philippines have escalated, with recent confrontations in the South China Sea raising concerns of a larger conflict involving the United States. The Second Thomas Shoal has also become a hotspot for territorial disputes between the two countries.

The recent incident at Sabina Shoal underscores the ongoing tensions in the region, with China’s increasing military presence and aggressive actions posing a threat to stability and security in Southeast Asia.