The Philippines’ legal stance toward China in the East Sea (2016 - 2024)

Abstract

This article examines the Philippines’ legal stance toward China in the East Sea (South China Sea) dispute from 2016 to 2024, focusing on comparing this approach under the two presidencies: Rodrigo Duterte and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Following the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruling, the Philippines had an opportunity to consolidate its sovereignty stance, yet faced significant challenges in implementing and safeguarding its legal rights. While Duterte pursued a cautious and relatively passive approach, Marcos Jr. has shown a tendency to restore and enhance the legitimacy of the Philippines’ legal stance through international advocacy and the consolidation of domestic social consensus.