Tensions rise as China's actions threaten Philippines' diplomatic relations and economy

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed dissatisfaction with the current direction of diplomatic efforts with China regarding the South China Sea issue, stating that a "paradigm shift" is needed. Marcos emphasized that traditional methods of diplomacy have yielded little progress and called for a joint position among countries involved in the situation. The Philippines aims to avoid violent conflict and will continue engaging in dialogue with its partners. Last week, tensions escalated between Manila and Beijing over a ship collision near a disputed shoal in the South China Sea. China's foreign ministry expressed willingness to manage differences through dialogue and consultation.