China Urges Philippines to Reconsider Relations Amid South China Sea Tensions

Amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea, China has urged the Philippines to rethink their bilateral relationship. Both nations have accused each other of aggressive maritime actions, obstructing trust-building efforts. Beijing emphasizes dialogue over confrontation, while the U.S. reaffirmed support for the Philippines against China's maritime claims.

China has called on the Philippines to "seriously consider the future" of their relationship, which stands "at a crossroads," as tensions escalate in the South China Sea. The People's Daily, the newspaper of the governing Communist Party, highlighted this in a Monday commentary.

In recent months, both nations have exchanged accusations of intentionally ramming coast guard vessels in the disputed waterway, including a violent clash in June that resulted in a Filipino sailor losing a finger. These incidents have overshadowed efforts to rebuild trust and enhance maritime dispute handling through new lines of communication.

Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea, including areas claimed by the Philippines and other nations. Despite a 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling against China's sweeping claims, Beijing has continued to assert its dominance over the waterway. The U.S. has reaffirmed its commitment to Philippine security in light of these developments.

(With inputs from agencies.)