Jonathan Malaya, assistant director-general of the Philippines’ National Security Council, remarked, “We cannot go toe to toe with China. We are not a rising superpower like China with enormous resources at their disposal.” While this might suggest a more pragmatic approach, critics argue it is merely playing the victim.
Over the past year, the Philippines’ actions in the South China Sea, including deliberate confrontations with Chinese vessels and controversial maritime laws, have heightened tensions. These actions, amplified by selective Western media coverage, have portrayed China as a “bully.”
Moreover, the Philippines’ refusal to withdraw the US Typhon missile system and its plans for permanent deployment of strategic weapons have escalated risks of an arms race in the region.
Looking ahead, the Philippines might struggle with diminished US support under a possible Trump administration, as Biden’s backing was a key driver of its provocations.
