Iza Aldana
Jun 19, 2026
Laurel warns that excluding key parties from maritime negotiations could heighten tensions and complicate efforts toward lasting peace in the region.
MANILA, Philippines — Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute (ACPSSII) President Herman Tiu Laurel has raised concerns over the ongoing maritime delimitation discussions between the Philippines and Japan, warning that the initiative could contribute to heightened tensions in the Asia-Pacific region if key stakeholders are excluded from the process.
In a recent statement, Laurel argued that the talks could be viewed as provocative because China was allegedly neither invited nor consulted despite its interests in the surrounding maritime areas. He pointed to Taiwan's geographic position between Japan and the Philippines, noting that the island also has its own exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and territorial waters that may be affected by any maritime arrangements.
Laurel drew parallels to previous regional disputes, including the tensions surrounding the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands and the Scarborough Shoal standoff in 2012. According to him, such incidents have historically contributed to broader geopolitical rivalries and increased military activities in the region.
He further claimed that maritime disputes have been used to justify the continued presence of foreign military forces and exercises in the South China Sea, particularly involving the United States and its allies. Laurel maintained that the narrative portraying China as a regional threat does not reflect what he described as the broader framework of cooperation and assistance between Manila and Beijing.
The ACPSSII president cited examples of economic and agricultural cooperation between the Philippines and China, including assistance related to fisheries and fertilizer supplies, as evidence of the benefits of maintaining constructive bilateral relations.
Asked about the possible impact of the maritime delimitation discussions on relations among the Philippines, China, Japan, and the United States, Laurel said the initiative could prolong regional tensions rather than reduce them. He argued that any agreement reached without China's participation would face significant challenges in implementation.
Laurel also emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving maritime disputes. He urged all countries with interests in the South China Sea and East China Sea to participate in peaceful discussions aimed at managing overlapping claims and preventing escalation.
He pointed to existing diplomatic mechanisms, including bilateral consultations between the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as channels that should be strengthened to address contentious issues through peaceful means.
The ACPSSII president reiterated his position that sustained dialogue, mutual respect, and diplomatic engagement remain the most effective approaches to maintaining stability and promoting peace in the region.