MANILA — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on July 24, 2026, his intention to reset the country's increasingly strained relationship with China. This announcement comes amid a series of confrontations in the contested South China Sea that have cast a shadow over the ASEAN foreign ministers meetings held in Manila.
The tensions in the South China Sea have drawn criticism from the U.S. and Australia towards Beijing, complicating regional diplomatic efforts. On July 21, President Marcos met with Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan at the Malacanang Presidential Palace in Manila, signaling a diplomatic engagement amid the ongoing disputes.
The Philippines' move to seek a reset in relations with China highlights the delicate balance ASEAN countries face in managing regional security and diplomatic ties.
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