The Philippines has ignited fresh tensions in the South China Sea with two new maritime laws that challenge China’s sovereignty and regional stability, according to Chinese experts. The laws, signed by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aim to tighten control over foreign vessels in waters claimed by Manila — but critics argue they violate international law.
What’s in the Laws?
The Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act restricts foreign ships and planes to specific routes near U.S. military bases in the Philippines, raising fears of joint U.S.-Philippine surveillance. Meanwhile, the Maritime Zones Act claims China’s Huangyan Island and parts of the Nansha Islands as Philippine territory.
China Pushes Back
“These laws are a ‘cognitive warfare’ strategy that disrupts decades of maritime norms,” said Ding Duo, a researcher at China’s National Institute for South China Sea Studies. He argues the move breaks UNCLOS rules by limiting free navigation and weaponizing the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling — which China has always rejected as “a political farce.”
Why It Matters
With U.S. military ties in play, analysts warn the laws could escalate regional risks. China insists its ships and aircraft will continue operating freely under international law, setting the stage for potential standoffs.
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