The Philippines’ Policy on the East Sea under President Marcos Jr.

Abstract

Since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took power, with the affirmation of “a firm
policy in dealing with China” and the commitment "I will not preside over any process that will
abandon even one square inch of territory of the Republic of the Philippines to any foreign
power.", the Marcos Jr. administration’s approach to the East Sea issue has undergone significant
shifts compared to that of the previous the Duterte administration. President Marcos Jr. has
implemented a multi-dimensional strategy, flexibly combining the protection of territorial
sovereignty with enhanced defense cooperation and maintaining regional stability. This article
clarifies the Philippines’ policy towards the East Sea issue since President Marcos Jr. took office,
analyzes its implementation across political–diplomatic, security - defense, legal – information,
propaganda dimensions. It also points out some impacts on regional security and the situation in
the East Sea, thereby offering some implications for Vietnam.