17-7-2024 (MANILA) The Philippines and China have forged a new communication channel that allows direct contact between their respective presidential offices through an emergency hotline. This arrangement, aimed at addressing maritime disputes, comes as tensions continue to simmer in the contested waters of the West Philippine Sea.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in Manila has confirmed the establishment of the “Arrangement on Improving Philippines-China Maritime Communication Mechanisms”. This accord, signed on 2 July 2024, emerged from bilateral talks intended to de-escalate tensions following a violent confrontation between the two nations’ coast guards near Ayungin Shoal.
This latest agreement builds upon a previous communication line established in January 2023, which facilitated lower-level dialogue on maritime issues. The new arrangement significantly expands the scope of direct communication, encompassing high-level government officials from both sides.
Key features of the new communication mechanism include a direct line between representatives of the Philippine and Chinese presidents, communication channels linking the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs with China’s foreign affairs ministry, including at the secretary and undersecretary levels, and a dedicated line between the Philippine Coast Guard and the Chinese Coast Guard.
The efficacy of the previous communication channel in resolving maritime disputes remains unclear. However, it has been utilised in instances such as the February 2023 incident where China’s Coast Guard employed military-grade lasers against Filipino vessels. On that occasion, the DFA used the channel to express concerns about what it deemed “aggressive and threatening” behaviour.
The need for improved communication was underscored by a violent altercation in June 2024, when Chinese vessels reportedly rammed Filipino boats during a resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre. This incident resulted in injuries to several Philippine Navy personnel, including Seaman First Class Underwater Operator Jeffrey Facundo, who lost a thumb in the confrontation.
The ongoing maritime dispute stems from China’s expansive claims over nearly the entire South China Sea, including areas the Philippines refers to as the West Philippine Sea. Despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in favour of the Philippines, which declared China’s extensive claims lacking legal basis, Beijing continues to assert its stance.
