Philippine Defense Chief Criticizes China

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. labeled China as 'the biggest disruptor' of peace in Southeast Asia during a US Indo-Pacific Command conference, urging stronger international condemnation of Beijing's aggressive actions in the South China Sea. His remarks followed China's blocking of Philippine vessels attempting to deliver supplies to a Coast Guard ship at Sabina Shoal, amidst a backdrop of increasing confrontations over disputed maritime territories. Teodoro emphasized the need for collective multilateral action, including a potential UN Security Council resolution, although he acknowledged the challenges of achieving such a consensus. He criticized the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for insufficient responses to China's assertive behavior, stressing the need for a stronger stance to maintain its relevance. The ongoing tensions are rooted in China's expansive claims in the region, which conflict with the claims of several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines.