MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has raised alarm over increasing aggressive actions by China in the South China Sea, with a top security official stating that the nation feels "pushed to the wall." In a recent statement, Jonathan Malaya, assistant director-general of the National Security Council, indicated that "all options are on the table" in response to the escalating tensions, including the possibility of new international lawsuits against China.

This warning comes after a large Chinese coast guard ship was observed patrolling the contentious Scarborough Shoal and approaching the northwestern coast of the Philippines, as close as 143 kilometers (approximately 77 nautical miles) from the archipelago's shores. Malaya described the presence of the "monster ship" as unacceptable and called for its immediate withdrawal. He emphasized the nation's resolve in the face of intimidation, stating, "We do not waver or cower."

Philippine officials coordinated responses from their coast guard, directing two vessels and a small surveillance aircraft to demand the withdrawal of the Chinese ship from the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, which extends for 370 kilometers (200 nautical miles). Commodore Jay Tarriela of the Philippine Coast Guard stated, "We're not going to allow China to normalize the illegal deployment," reinforcing the nation's determination to challenge China's aggressive maritime maneuvers.

Historically, China has been assertive in claiming territorial rights over the South China Sea, including Scarborough Shoal, where it has stationed vessels since a significant standoff in 2012. The Philippines has actively sought to defend its rights under international law, notably bringing its disputes with China to arbitration. In 2016, an international tribunal ruled in favor of the Philippines, invalidating China's expansive claims over the contested waters under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, although China has since rejected this ruling.

Under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who assumed office in mid-2022, the Philippines has adopted a more confrontational stance to protect its territorial interests, fearing that a significant conflict could also engage its ally, the United States. This ongoing tension has driven the Philippines to seek military partnerships with other nations, including a notable agreement with Japan allowing for joint military exercises. This historic pact was signed in July and awaits legislative ratification.

As both nations continue discussions through a bilateral consultation mechanism aimed at preventing escalation, Malaya's remarks signal a potential shift towards pursuing formal legal avenues once again should the situation deteriorate further. "Will this lead to another case?" he queried, emphasizing the precarious nature of the current maritime situation.

In contrast, Beijing has discouraged the Philippines from seeking further arbitration, favoring bilateral talks that can leverage China's superior size and influence.

For further details, you can read the full articles from AP News and South China Morning Post.