Rising tensions in South China Sea

On April 7, 2024, the newest Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) exercise began in the South China Sea. Naval units from Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States took part. A statement from the Philippine Department of National Defense, signed by defense leaders from the four countries, emphasized conducting the MCA in line with international and domestic laws, focusing on navigation safety, and respecting other states' rights.

This is the fourth MCA exercise in 2024. The first involved the US and Philippine navies in 2023, followed by one with the Australian and Philippine navies. Ships like the BRP Gregorio del Pilar, USS Mobile, JS Akebono, and HMAS Warramunga participated in the latest MCA.

The Japanese Embassy in the Philippines detailed MCA scenarios, including anti-submarine warfare training and tactical exercises. Simultaneously, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command (STC) announced joint naval and air patrols in the South China Sea.

These exercises follow maritime tensions between Beijing and Manila. The Philippine Coast Guard reported Chinese Coast Guard ships harassing Filipino vessels in Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) waters.

Talks are ongoing to deepen defense cooperation between Manila and Tokyo. Discussions include a Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) allowing Japanese Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) on Philippine territory. Japan's participation in the MCA aims to strengthen its reputation as a security partner in the Indo-Pacific.

For the Philippines, cooperation signals a desire to counter Chinese incursions. Joint activities with the US, Australia, and Japan bolster rule of law in the region, especially in the South China Sea.

MCA exercises affirm the right to navigate international waters freely and deepen military cooperation among allies. They provide a platform for regional engagement, as shown by Australia and Japan's participation in the 2023 launch.