By 
Alyssa Almonte
Nick Wehrli, December 13, 2019
The ongoing conflict between the Philippines and China over the disputed Spratly Islands in the West Philippine Sea has intensified following accusations by both nations that each engaged in illegal activities in Sandy Cay, a sandbank in the contested islands. Sandy Cay is a strategically located sandbank due to its proximity to a Philippine military outpost.
Philippine officials have consistently rejected China’s claim to the islands, despite China’s persistent assertions of sovereignty. In 2016, the Arbitral Tribunal established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea rendered a definitive ruling in the South China Sea arbitration case, favouring the Philippines. China did not participate in that arbitration proceeding.
Amidst these challenges, a diplomatic breakthrough is on the horizon. China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries have mutually agreed to complete the long-awaited South China Sea Code of Conduct (COC) by 2026. The Code is intended to establish a legally binding framework for managing territorial disputes within the South China Sea, where competing territorial claims have frequently engendered tensions.
Furthermore, it seeks to mitigate the risk of conflict and foster cooperation on critical issues such as maritime security, resource management, and environmental protection. Despite slow progress in the negotiations, this agreement signifies a substantial step toward a more structured approach to regional governance.
The Philippines has welcomed China’s political commitment to the Code, viewing it as a crucial tool in safeguarding its territorial rights and promoting regional stability. The Department of Foreign Affairs has expressed confidence that the Code will be a pivotal instrument in managing the intricate territorial disputes, particularly in the face of ongoing territorial disputes and rising tensions. For the Philippines, the implementation of the Code is paramount in fostering peace and stability within the contested waters.
Sources and Further Readings:
DFA: China “politically committed” to COC on South China Sea
PH Navy dismisses China’s Sandy Cay “sovereignty” claim: Diversion, malign influence
China and Philippines display competing flags on disputed South China Sea sandbank
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