Philippines Accuses China of Sovereignty Pressure

Filipino Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro has accused China of increasing pressure on the Philippines to relinquish its sovereign rights in the South China Sea, particularly regarding the contested Scarborough Shoal. Following his meeting with Australian counterpart Richard Marles, Teodoro emphasized the Philippines as a 'victim of Chinese aggression' and noted the ongoing diplomatic protests against China's recent actions, which have totaled 189 since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office. The Philippines has intensified its security cooperation with Australia, having signed a strategic partnership in September 2023 and conducted joint military exercises. China has responded critically to Philippine maritime laws that align with international rulings on territorial claims. Teodoro reiterated that China's actions contradict international law, highlighting the lack of global support for China's expansive claims in the region.