Manila and Beijing can still choose cooperation over conflict

The Philippines’ coming midterm elections in May, the incoming Donald Trump administration and last year’s violent maritime clashes may keep bilateral ties between Manila and Beijing volatile. Leaders on both sides interested in easing tensions and preventing conflict have their work cut out for them.

Luckily, economics could bind the two countries together while improved diplomatic efforts can moderate bellicosity. As the Philippines and China mark the 50th anniversary of official ties, both sides must work harder to manage their differences and seek more common ground.

Last year was the “most violent” and “most dangerous moment” between the two sides in the South China Sea, according to experts interviewed by the Post. On June 17, 2024, a clash resulted in one Filipino sailor losing his thumb in a physical altercation. The Philippines has shifted from an emphasis on dialogue, confidence-building and exploring practical cooperation under the previous administration to aggressive transparency under the current one.