Talking peace, hosting war games: Strategic incoherence at sea and mixed signals

….. AT the 46th Asean Summit held in Kuala Lumpur on May 26, 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized the urgent need for Asean members and China to expedite the adoption of a legally binding code of conduct (COC) in the South China Sea (SCS). He said: "We underscore the urgent need to accelerate the adoption of a legally binding code of conduct in the SCS. This safeguards maritime rights, promotes stability, and prevents miscalculations at sea."

Thus, Marcos warned that, without a binding COC framework, the region remains vulnerable to escalating tensions and potential conflicts. Looking ahead, the Philippines aims to finalize the COC by 2026, coinciding with its upcoming Asean chairmanship.

While President Marcos' statement advocating for peace and a rules-based resolution in the SCS is, on the surface, a welcome and positive gesture, the real question that lingers is whether this rhetoric will be matched by consistent and credible action. Many observers hope it is not mere lip service or a public relations maneuver to appease critics both at home and abroad, especially given the growing perception of strategic incoherence within his administration…

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TMT Link: https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/06/07/opinion/columns/talking-peace-hosting-war-games-strategic-incoherence-at-sea-and-mixed-signals/2128870