Philippines to view maritime rows with China as ‘one theatre’, partner Japan
South China Morning PostThursday, July 3, 2025 at 4:00:15 AM
The Philippines is changing its approach to maritime disputes with China by treating the East and South China Seas as a single strategic zone, following Japan’s lead. This "one-theatre" strategy aims to boost coordination among allies like the U.S., Japan, and South Korea—part of a group called the "Squad"—to counter China’s growing influence in the region. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro says it’ll improve intelligence-sharing and military cooperation. Analysts see this as a sign of tighter alliances in the face of China’s assertive moves.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about lines on a map—it’s a big shift in how the Philippines and its allies are pushing back against China’s expanding control over contested waters. By linking the two seas into a single "theatre," they’re basically saying, "We’re all in this together," which could make their response more coordinated and harder for Beijing to ignore. For folks in the region, it signals escalating tensions but also a stronger united front. Watch this space—it could reshape power dynamics in Asia’s maritime backyard.
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