Philippines Advocates for Binding South China Sea Agreement as ASEAN Chair

The Philippines is gearing up to finalize a binding code of conduct for the South China Sea during its upcoming chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year. This effort signals a positive shift among Southeast Asian nations and China towards establishing a framework for cooperation and conflict avoidance in this crucial maritime area, according to Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro on Monday.

The South China Sea has historically been a source of regional conflict, with competing territorial claims from China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. Disputes over fishing rights, navigation routes, and possible oil and gas resources have occasionally intensified tensions, raising concerns of military clashes.

Lazaro stressed that the proposed code must be legally binding, with the aim of ensuring compliance from all involved parties to manage disputes effectively and prevent unforeseen confrontations. “Our ambition is to establish a framework that ensures peace, security, and stability within these waters,” she remarked.

Discussions concerning a code of conduct have been ongoing since the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. Despite an initial consensus, progress was slow, with notable advancements only materializing in recent years. ASEAN representatives have consistently urged for stronger commitments to make the agreement actionable rather than merely symbolic.

China has shown a readiness to engage with ASEAN nations, with key principles like freedom of navigation, peaceful dispute resolution, and adherence to international law — particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) — reportedly garnering consensus.

As ASEAN chair starting in 2026, the Philippines intends to focus on maritime security and regional stability. Lazaro pointed out that achieving a legally binding code could amplify ASEAN’s collective position in negotiations with China and foster greater trust among its member states.

Experts observe that a completed code could mitigate tensions in the South China Sea and serve as a model for tackling other maritime disputes worldwide. Challenges remain, however, including reconciling national interests, addressing historical grievances, and ensuring compliance from all parties.

In its role as ASEAN chair, the Philippines is expected to facilitate high-level discussions with Chinese leaders and other Southeast Asian dignitaries, marking a renewed commitment to seek diplomatic resolutions over armed conflict. The global community will be watching closely to see if these diplomatic efforts can lead to a landmark agreement that formalizes cooperation in one of the world’s most strategically vital and contested maritime zones.