Can China and Philippines replace ‘disputes with cooperation’ after years of tension?

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Alyssa ChenFebruary 25, 2026 at 12:26 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

China and the Philippines are considering joint coastguard patrols in the South China Sea, potentially beginning by the end of March. This initiative follows years of tension over disputed waters and was discussed during a meeting between Philippine Senator Erwin Tulfo and Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan. The proposed agreement aims to foster cooperation through joint patrols, search and rescue operations, and environmental clean-ups, replacing existing disputes. This confidence-building measure precedes upcoming talks between China and ASEAN to establish a code of conduct for the South China Sea by the end of the year. The specific operational terms of the joint patrols will determine their long-term viability.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) 60% Erwin Tulfo 70% Jing Quan ×270% China ×390% Philippines ×290% South China Sea ×395%

Keywords

south china sea 100% philippines 90% china 90% joint coastguard patrols 80% cooperation 70% disputes 70% memorandum of agreement 60% asean 50% code of conduct 50%