Philippines Seeks Urgent Talks with China Amid South China Sea Tensions Over Sierra Madre Outpost

The Philippines is urgently seeking to schedule a call with China to address rising tensions in the South China Sea, according to the country's ambassador to the US. The conflict centers around the Sierra Madre, a decaying World War II-era ship grounded on the Second Thomas Shoal, which the Philippines uses as an outpost and resupplies monthly.

Despite a 2016 UN ruling against China's territorial claims, China asserts the area as its own and has increasingly harassed Filipino supply ships. This harassment escalated on June 17 when Chinese sailors boarded Filipino vessels, damaging equipment and injuring eight personnel. One Filipino lost his thumb, leading to a hospital visit from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who recently stated that a Filipino death in such confrontations would be considered "very close" to an act of war.

Such a scenario could invoke the mutual defense treaty with the US, potentially involving America in the conflict. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin affirmed America's strong commitment to the treaty but did not provide further comments.

Philippines Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, speaking to reporters in Washington, noted that efforts are underway to de-escalate tensions, including scheduling a call with Chinese counterparts by early July. He emphasized the need for a frank discussion with China to reduce tensions.

Romualdez also confirmed that the Philippines has reinforced the Sierra Madre to improve conditions for stationed soldiers, despite China's objections. He reiterated that the Philippines has no plans to abandon the outpost.

On Wednesday, Austin reaffirmed America's support for the Philippines in a call with his Manila counterpart. The US and the Philippines have strengthened their security relationship over the past year, with the US gaining access to four new military sites in northern Philippines and expanding the "Balikatan" military exercise. The US also deployed a mid-range missile system to the Philippines for the first time in April.

Despite Beijing's objections, the Philippines maintains that the new security agreement is defensive. In April, the US approved a substantial security funding package, including $4 billion for the Indo-Pacific, with a significant portion likely headed to Taiwan and potentially the Philippines.

Ambassador Romualdez emphasized the need for decisive action from all parties involved to address the situation.