UK Reaffirms Commitment to Philippines’ South China Sea Policy
The United Kingdom has reiterated its support for the Philippines’ stance on addressing issues in the South China Sea, particularly amid Chinese aggression in the disputed waters.
During his recent visit to London, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo met with UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell to exchange views on the South China Sea dispute and other regional concerns.
Manalo welcomed the strengthening partnership between the Philippines and the UK, emphasizing their shared commitment to a rules-based international order and adherence to international law in the Indo-Pacific region.
Diplomatic and Economic Engagements
In addition to bilateral talks, Manalo held a roundtable discussion with British business executives at London-based think tank Asia House. He provided insights into Philippine-UK relations, Philippine-US ties, and the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.
Manalo highlighted that the 2025 Annual Outlook by Asia House recognizes the Philippines as one of Asia’s top economic performers. However, the Asia House 2024 Business Perceptions Survey identified geopolitical tensions as the most significant risk to the region’s economic outlook.
He further underscored that tensions in the South China Sea persist due to “continuing illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions” against legitimate Philippine operations in its sovereign maritime zones.
Commitment to Diplomacy and International Law
During a dialogue at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, attended by over 500 participants in person and online, Manalo reiterated the Philippines’ firm position on the South China Sea disputes.
“Our stance has been clear and consistent: maritime claims cannot exceed the limits set by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The Philippines will defend its national interests and maritime entitlements, but we are committed to diplomacy and the peaceful settlement of disputes.”
Manalo reaffirmed that the Philippines remains steadfast in its commitment to diplomatic solutions while securing international support for its efforts to uphold sovereignty and maintain stability in the region.
