Manila, Philippines – In a significant diplomatic initiative, a diverse coalition of governments and public institutions convened the Manila Dialogue on the South China Sea (SCS) this week, aiming to cultivate a unified approach to addressing the complex disputes in the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea region. This high-level dialogue drew participation from various Southeast Asian nations, international experts, and civil society representatives, emphasizing the necessity for collaborative solutions grounded in principled diplomacy.
The discussions were held against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the SCS, where competing territorial claims have engendered friction among several countries, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The dialogue sought to foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding, urging all parties to prioritize peaceful negotiation over confrontational tactics.
One of the primary goals of the Manila Dialogue was to reinforce the importance of a rules-based order in the region. Keynote speakers and all ambassors, highlighted the significance of upholding international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as a framework for resolving disputes. Participants collectively acknowledged that a rules-based order is essential for maintaining stability and predictability in the South China Sea, calling for adherence to legal frameworks that protect the rights of all coastal states.
“The South China Sea is vital not just for the nations bordering it, but for global trade and security,” remarked H.E Hae Kyong Yu a speaker at the event. “We must ensure that our actions are guided by law, not by unilateral force. A rules-based order is the only way forward.”
A central theme of the Manila Dialogue was the need for inclusive dialogue mechanisms. “We must engage not just governments but also local communities, stakeholders, and civil society in these discussions,” said Speaker of the House, Ferdinand Romualdez. “Their voices are crucial in shaping a sustainable and equitable approach to our shared maritime challenges.” This inclusive approach aims to ensure that the interests and concerns of various stakeholders are adequately represented in any proposed solutions.
Another critical aspect of the discussions revolved around the involvement of foreign actors in the South China Sea disputes. While the dialogue underscored the importance of local nations working together to resolve their differences, it also acknowledged the influence of external powers in the region. Participants emphasized that foreign nations must respect the sovereignty of Southeast Asian countries and support their efforts to resolve conflicts through dialogue rather than through coercive means. China was represented and this parts of the dialogue was lively.
Commo. Jay Tarriela, noted, “While external support can be beneficial, it is essential that local countries take the lead in settling their differences. Dialogue among Southeast Asian nations must remain at the forefront, with foreign actors playing a supportive role, rather than imposing their own agendas.”
During the dialogue, participants explored various recommendations to prevent escalation of tensions and discourage coercion and the use of force in the region. Emphasizing the importance of crisis management mechanisms, they proposed establishing hotlines and communication channels between coast guard agencies to facilitate dialogue during incidents at sea. This proactive approach aims to reduce misunderstandings and prevent situations from escalating into conflicts.
A notable point of discussion was the evolving role of coast guard organizations in Southeast Asia. With the rise of grey zone coercion at sea, these agencies have increasingly become the primary forces in maintaining maritime safety and security, evolving from traditional roles to proactive maritime guardians. Participants emphasized that coast guards must now assert control over their jurisdictions, including territorial seas, exclusive economic zones (EEZ), and continental shelves, in accordance with international law and the principles of a rules-based order.
“Coast guards are no longer just law enforcement agencies; they are essential players in maritime governance,” Adm. Ronnie Gavan added. “We must enhance our cooperation and coordination to effectively address the challenges posed by aggressive actions at sea.”
As the dialogue progressed, participants underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation in building trust and confidence among nations. Collaborative frameworks for joint resource management and maritime safety were identified as essential steps toward reducing tensions and fostering a cooperative spirit. The dialogue also explored the potential for joint maritime exercises and training programs aimed at enhancing the capabilities of coast guard forces across the region.
The Manila Dialogue concluded with a renewed commitment to dialogue and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of solidarity among nations in the face of shared challenges. The participants called for the establishment of regular follow-up meetings to monitor progress on the initiatives discussed and to ensure continued engagement among stakeholders.
As the region navigates a complex geopolitical landscape, this initiative serves as a hopeful reminder of the potential for diplomacy to pave the way for peaceful and principled solutions in the South China Sea. The outcomes of the dialogue will likely shape future discussions and policies as stakeholders continue to seek resolutions to one of the most contentious maritime disputes in the world.
The Manila Dialogue on the South China Sea marks a crucial step in fostering a collaborative environment for resolving disputes. By emphasizing a rules-based order and the importance of inclusive dialogue, the participants have laid the groundwork for a more stable and secure maritime future in Southeast Asia. The commitment to multilateral cooperation, proactive maritime governance, and the essential role of local nations in settling their differences will be central to addressing the challenges that lie ahead. Furthermore, by focusing on preventive measures and mechanisms to deter escalation, the dialogue reinforces a collective determination to maintain peace and security in this vital maritime region.
