Philippines Endorses Quad Foreign Ministers' Joint Statement on South China Sea

MANILA, July 3, 2025 – The Philippines has officially welcomed the Joint Statement issued by the Quad Foreign Ministers during their recent meeting on July 1, 2025. This statement has raised significant concerns regarding the ongoing situation in the South China Sea, a region marked by escalating tensions and territorial disputes. The Quad, consisting of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, emphasized the importance of upholding international law and ensuring the freedom of navigation in these contested waters.

The Quad's declaration reflects a collective commitment among these nations to counteract aggressive actions in the South China Sea, which has been a focal point of geopolitical tension in the Asia-Pacific region. According to Secretary of Foreign Affairs Maria Clara V. Santos of the Philippines, "The Philippines stands firm in its commitment to uphold its territorial rights and support the rules-based international order that governs maritime conduct." This statement underscores the Philippines' strategic positioning within the Quad partnership and its proactive stance on regional security matters.

In the joint statement, the Quad ministers called for the peaceful resolution of disputes based on international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They expressed their unwavering support for the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which invalidated China's expansive claims over the South China Sea. This ruling is pivotal for the Philippines, which has been asserting its rights over parts of the contested waters.

Dr. Jonathan Lee, an expert in international relations at the University of the Philippines, noted, "The Quad's engagement in the South China Sea highlights the growing recognition of the need for a multilateral approach to security in the region. This can potentially deter unilateral actions by larger powers that threaten the existing geopolitical balance."

The significance of this joint statement lies not only in its immediate implications for the South China Sea but also in its broader impact on regional alliances. The Quad's unified front may influence other nations in Southeast Asia to strengthen their own stances against external pressures. Furthermore, it underscores the evolving security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, where cooperation among like-minded democracies is becoming increasingly pivotal.

Looking ahead, analysts predict that the Quad will continue to enhance its collaboration on security issues, including joint military exercises and intelligence sharing, to address challenges posed by assertive regional players. As the Philippines navigates its complex relationships with both Western allies and its Asian neighbors, the role of the Quad will likely become even more crucial in shaping its foreign policy.

In conclusion, the Philippines' reception of the Quad Foreign Ministers' Joint Statement signifies a strategic alignment with global partners in advocating for a rules-based maritime order. The developments in the South China Sea will remain a critical focus for the Philippines as it seeks to balance its national interests with regional stability and international cooperation.