The presence of a Russian submarine within the waters of the West Philippine Sea has raised significant concern for the Philippines, particularly for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The submarine, identified as a Kilo-class vessel, was reportedly located approximately 80 nautical miles from Mindoro Island after completing exercises with the Malaysian military. Marcos described its intrusion into the area, claiming it as part of the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), as “very concerning.” He emphasized the threat such foreign military presence poses to the Philippines’ sovereignty and spoke about the necessity of safeguarding the nation’s territorial waters against any potential incursions.
The West Philippine Sea, a term often utilized by the Philippines to describe its territorial claims within the larger contested South China Sea, is subject to overlapping claims from various nations, including China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. China has specifically laid claim over strategic features like the Spratly Islands and Scarborough Shoal, complicating diplomatic relations in the region. While the term “West Philippine Sea” is frequently adopted in Manila’s discourse, Beijing does not acknowledge its usage, viewing the entirety of the South China Sea as part of its territory. The waterway is of vital importance, not only due to its commercial shipping routes but also as a key platform for ongoing geopolitical tensions among regional stakeholders.
In response to the submarine’s reported activity, Jonathan Malaya from the Philippines National Security Council articulated that the Russian vessel was exercising its right to “innocent passage.” This principle under international law allows for non-commercial vessels to navigate through foreign waters under certain conditions. The United States similarly utilizes this legal framework to justify the presence of its naval forces in contentious waterways, notably the Taiwan Strait and areas near China’s claimed territories. This precedent emphasizes the complexities of maritime law and the balance of power in the region, where interpretation of international rights can vary based on which country is asserting them.
Under President Marcos Jr., the Philippines appears to be pivoting towards a more pro-American stance in foreign relations compared to his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte. While Duterte sought closer ties with Beijing and Moscow, Marcos has actively engaged in strengthening military cooperation with the United States. His administration has permitted increased access for American forces to additional military bases in the Philippines, strategically positioned near disputed waters. Furthermore, the frequency and scope of joint military exercises between the Philippines and the US have dramatically increased, signaling a return to a more aligned security posture amid widespread concerns over China’s growing assertiveness in the region.
The intensified military collaboration has not gone unnoticed by Beijing, which has voiced alarm and discontent over the maneuvers. Following joint exercises involving US, Australian, Canadian, and Philippine forces near Scarborough Shoal, China responded with a rapid military mobilization, indicating its readiness to showcase its “strike capabilities” in response to what it perceives as provocative actions by the Philippines and its allies. The Chinese military’s assertion that such exercises undermine regional stability highlights the delicate balance of power and the potential for conflict in these heavily contested areas.
In summary, the reported presence of a Russian submarine in the West Philippine Sea marks a significant moment in the ongoing tensions within this strategically important region. President Marcos Jr.’s concerns underline the Philippines’ need to assert its sovereignty amidst competing claims, particularly from China. The Philippine government’s stance on “innocent passage” reflects broader international principles while showcasing the complex interplay between maritime law and national security. Under Marcos, military relations with the US have gained momentum, intensifying diplomatic relations and prompting reactions from regional powers like China. As maritime activities evolve, ensuring regional stability and peace in the South China Sea will remain a pressing concern for all involved nations.