Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has issued a strong warning to China amid growing tensions in the South China Sea. Speaking at a security forum in Singapore, Marcos stated that any deliberate harm to Filipinos by China would be seen as an "act of war," prompting a significant response from the Philippines.

During his address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, a major security summit attended by defense leaders from around the world, including US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Marcos emphasized the critical importance of the region for global security. He pointed out that the United States' security is intertwined with that of Asia.

The long-standing territorial dispute between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea has recently intensified, with reports of aggressive actions by Chinese patrol ships. Manila has accused Chinese vessels of using water cannons against Philippine boats and supply ships, leading to injuries but, so far, no fatalities.

"If a Filipino, whether a serviceman or a civilian, is killed due to China's deliberate actions, we would consider it very close to an act of war and respond accordingly," Marcos declared. He stressed that such an incident would almost certainly trigger the US-Philippines defense treaty, obligating the US to support the Philippines.

A Chinese military spokesman responded to Marcos' remarks by accusing the Philippines of provocation and deflecting blame onto China. The spokesman argued that accidental deaths should not lead to war and criticized the Philippines for stirring tensions over the disputed Second Thomas Shoal.

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, addressing the same forum, condemned the harassment faced by the Philippines and reiterated the US's commitment to its allies in the region. He assured that the US would promote freedom of navigation and seek to prevent unnecessary escalation. Austin highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the defenses of Asian countries through military exercises and agreements.

Both the US and China have expressed a desire to improve communication to avoid conflict. Following discussions between Austin and Chinese military officials, both sides agreed to work on restoring direct communication channels between military commanders, which had been cut off since 2022.

As tensions continue to simmer, the Philippines is enhancing its military capabilities, including acquiring missiles from India and seeking substantial US military aid. The country is also increasing its own defense spending to better safeguard its interests in the disputed waters.

In 2023, Manila reported that a Chinese ship targeted a Philippine vessel with a laser. Last year, several ships collided due to what the Philippines described as blocking maneuvers by China.

Marcos made his remarks following a speech to defense ministers, military chiefs, diplomats, and analysts at the Shangri-La Dialogue forum. In his speech, he portrayed the Philippines as a defender of regional security, emphasizing adherence to international law and treaties.

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