4-7-2024 (MANILA) Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has directed the country’s armed forces to take steps to reduce tensions in the South China Sea, according to a statement made by military chief General Romeo Brawner on Thursday. This move comes in the wake of recent consultations between Chinese and Filipino officials, aimed at improving bilateral relations.
General Brawner, addressing reporters, revealed that the military had presented the president with various options regarding operations in the contested waters. These included routine resupply missions to troops stationed on a disputed shoal, activities which have previously contributed to heightened tensions with Beijing.
The instruction from President Marcos Jr aligns with the outcome of high-level talks held on Tuesday between the Philippines and China. During these discussions, both nations acknowledged the need to “restore trust” and “rebuild confidence” in their relationship, which has been strained by territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
In a related development, General Brawner also announced that the armed forces would be liaising with Senator Imee Marcos, the president’s sister and head of the Senate foreign relations committee. This collaboration comes in response to the senator’s recent claim, made in a TikTok video, that she had knowledge of a Chinese plan to target the Philippines with hypersonic missiles.
The senator’s assertion, which has yet to be substantiated with evidence, has caused a stir in diplomatic circles and raised concerns about potential escalation in the region. The military’s decision to coordinate with Senator Marcos on this matter underscores the seriousness with which such claims are being treated, even in the absence of concrete proof.
