By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said any meaningful improvement in relations between the Philippines and China will depend on whether Beijing can demonstrate sincerity and earn the trust of the international community.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 2026 Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Teodoro stressed that Manila’s concerns are directed at the policies and actions of the Chinese government—not the Chinese people themselves.
“We have no problem with the Chinese people,” Teodoro said, noting that future relations would largely depend on the character and behavior of China’s leadership.
According to the defense chief, China’s government continues to face credibility issues because it often acts independently of international norms and resists broader global consensus on key issues.
While expressing hope for a future where military deterrence is no longer needed, Teodoro emphasized that the Philippines cannot afford to lower its guard given the current security environment.
He said maintaining strong defense capabilities remains essential, especially in an era marked by maritime disputes and growing geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific.
The defense secretary added that trust must be built through consistent actions, and until that happens, countries in the region must remain prepared to safeguard their interests.
Teodoro also revealed that Philippine authorities continue to closely monitor activities around Panatag Shoal, also known internationally as Scarborough Shoal and locally as Bajo de Masinloc.
Describing the area as “dynamic,” he said government agencies are keeping watch over developments, even those that may appear minor at first glance.
Although he declined to provide specific details regarding intelligence or operational information, Teodoro stressed that constant vigilance remains necessary in the contested waters.
Beyond regional security concerns, Teodoro highlighted growing defense ties between the Philippines and New Zealand.
He said both countries are preparing to expand military cooperation once the proposed Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) receives approval from the Philippine Senate.
Once ratified, the agreement is expected to facilitate broader access, joint activities, and deeper defense engagements between Manila and Wellington.
The defense secretary met with New Zealand Defence Minister Christopher Penk during the Shangri-La Dialogue, where both sides discussed ways to institutionalize military cooperation and strengthen bilateral security relations.
The Department of National Defense said the proposed agreement would support more structured military interactions, including New Zealand’s participation in Philippine-led exercises such as Balikatan and Salaknib.
Officials from both countries also explored opportunities to broaden cooperation in other defense-related areas, reflecting their shared interest in maintaining regional stability and enhancing military readiness.
Teodoro also previewed a concept he intends to present during his address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, drawing from ideas developed by maritime law expert Professor Jay Batongbacal.
The proposal envisions the Philippines serving as a platform where nations with differing geopolitical interests can engage in constructive dialogue despite ongoing rivalries and disputes.
The annual Shangri-La Dialogue, organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, brings together defense ministers, military commanders, policymakers, and security experts from across the world to discuss pressing regional and global security challenges.
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