Philippines Should Withdraw Missile System: China's Demand In South China Sea

Luna Greco

5 min read

Post on May 20, 2025

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The Strategic Importance of the Deployed Missile System for the Philippines

The Philippines' justification for deploying its missile system rests squarely on the imperative of national security and territorial defense. Facing perceived threats from increasingly assertive Chinese actions in the South China Sea, the deployment is seen as a necessary measure to protect its sovereign rights and resources. The system is designed to counter potential Chinese aggression, providing a crucial deterrent and enhancing the country's ability to safeguard its interests.

• Enhanced surveillance capabilities: The missile system provides advanced surveillance and monitoring of the surrounding waters, allowing for early detection of potential threats.
• Deterrent effect against potential incursions: The presence of the system acts as a powerful deterrent against further encroachment by China into Philippine-claimed territories.
• Protection of Philippine fishing rights and resources: The system helps secure access to vital fishing grounds and resources within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
• Assertion of sovereignty in the disputed waters: The deployment underscores the Philippines' unwavering commitment to defending its sovereign rights in the contested waters of the South China Sea.

China's Claims and Assertions in the South China Sea

China's claims in the South China Sea are based on its historical "nine-dash line," a demarcation that encompasses vast swathes of the maritime territory, overlapping with the claims of several other nations, including the Philippines. From China's perspective, the Philippine missile system is viewed as a direct challenge to its sovereignty claims, a provocation that threatens regional stability.

• Violation of China's claimed sovereignty: China considers the missile system's deployment a violation of its perceived sovereign rights within the nine-dash line area.
• Destabilization of the region: China argues that the missile system escalates tensions and threatens to destabilize the already volatile region.
• Escalation of tensions: The deployment is seen as a significant escalation of the ongoing territorial dispute, increasing the risk of military conflict.
• Potential for military conflict: China's strong reaction highlights the potential for the situation to escalate into a wider military conflict.

International Law and the South China Sea Dispute

The South China Sea dispute is governed by international law, primarily the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). UNCLOS establishes the concept of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and provides a framework for resolving maritime disputes peacefully. The Philippines' deployment of the missile system can be argued as an exercise of its right to self-defense under international law, particularly in light of China's assertive actions. The Permanent Court of Arbitration's ruling in 2016 further bolsters the Philippines' legal position.

• UNCLOS and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs): UNCLOS clearly defines the rights of coastal states within their EEZs, including the right to exploit resources and defend their territory.
• The Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling: The 2016 ruling largely invalidated China's nine-dash line claim, strengthening the Philippines' legal standing.
• International condemnation of China's assertive actions: Many nations have condemned China's assertive actions in the South China Sea, calling for adherence to international law.
• Support for the Philippines’ right to self-defense: The international community largely supports the Philippines’ right to defend its territory and interests within its EEZ.

Potential Consequences of Withdrawal and Alternatives

If the Philippines were to withdraw its missile system, it would likely face increased vulnerability to Chinese aggression and further encroachment on its territory. This could lead to a loss of territorial control, compromising national security and potentially emboldening China to pursue even more ambitious claims. However, pursuing de-escalation through diplomatic channels and international mediation remains a viable path.

• Increased vulnerability to Chinese aggression: Withdrawal would leave the Philippines more exposed to potential Chinese incursions and intimidation tactics.
• Loss of territorial control: The absence of the missile system could embolden China to further assert its claims over disputed territories.
• Compromised national security: Reduced defensive capabilities would significantly weaken the Philippines' national security posture.
• Diplomatic solutions and international mediation: Exploring diplomatic solutions and engaging in international mediation efforts could offer pathways to de-escalation.

Weighing the Implications – A Call for Deliberate Action on the Philippines Missile System

The debate surrounding the Philippines missile system deployment highlights a complex interplay of strategic interests, legal frameworks, and potential risks. The missile system is crucial for the Philippines' national security and the protection of its sovereign rights within its EEZ. The South China Sea missile controversy underscores the critical importance of upholding international law, specifically UNCLOS, and respecting the sovereignty of all nations involved. The Philippines’ response to China's demands must be carefully considered, prioritizing national security while simultaneously pursuing diplomatic solutions that promote peace and stability in the region. We must advocate for a resolution to the Philippines missile system deployment issue that prioritizes international law and respects the sovereignty of the Philippines while fostering peaceful coexistence in the South China Sea.