The South China Sea dispute remains one of the most pressing geopolitical issues in the Philippines today. For years, China has asserted its claim over vast portions of the sea, despite international rulings favoring the Philippines. This ongoing conflict raises critical questions about national security, economic resources, and the country's diplomatic strategies.
The Philippines has continuously reaffirmed its sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea, backed by the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which invalidated China’s sweeping claims. However, China's activities, including the construction of artificial islands and aggressive actions against Filipino fishermen and maritime forces, have intensified...