Manila should see potential behind goodwill: China Daily editorial

The recent maritime rescue operation near China's Huangyan Island, in which the China Coast Guard saved 17 Filipino sailors from a shipwreck, is a reminder that humanity should still shine even when there is a shadow over some areas of bilateral ties.

Notwithstanding the underlying tensions in the waters, this humanitarian act by the CCG, alongside the People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command, exemplified China's commitment to international maritime laws and the moral obligation to assist those in distress.

This was not an isolated incident. Just a month ago, on Dec 25, a PLA Navy destroyer provided "swift humanitarian assistance" to a Filipino fisherman who had been stranded at sea for three days. The challenge now is to turn these moments of assistance into a consensus that bilateral differences should be resolved through consultation.

China and the Philippines have already reached a preliminary consensus on creating a road map to manage tensions in the South China Sea. This framework could serve as a foundation for addressing disputes through dialogue, focusing on areas of mutual interest such as trade, environmental protection and maritime safety. The ongoing negotiations for a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea further highlight the potential for a cooperative approach to regional security.

China's ambassador to the Philippines, Jing Quan, emphasized the importance of dialogue over discord at a recent embassy reception in Manila when he called for resolving differences through diplomatic means. The message resonates with the broader goal of regional stability and offers the necessary space for advancing relations.

As this year's chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the Philippines is well-positioned to play its due role in facilitating multilateral discussions. By maintaining a balanced foreign policy, Manila can help foster an environment conducive to peaceful dialogue. A balanced approach is crucial for creating a stable and prosperous Southeast Asia.

It is essential for Manila to recognize that the South China Sea issue is but one aspect of the Sino-Philippine relationship. Economic ties, infrastructure development and cultural exchanges continue to bond the two nations. China's role as the Philippines' largest trading partner and its involvement in infrastructure projects demonstrate the tangible benefits of practical cooperation.

However, moving forward, it is imperative that the Ferdinand Marcos Jr government exercise restraint and refrain from escalating tensions. A recent statement by the Philippine Coast Guard, which falsely claimed that the area where the vessel capsized is "within the Philippine exclusive economic zone", does not help build mutual trust.

Both nations should keep communication channels open and build trust through consistent and transparent dialogue. This approach aligns with both countries' long-term interests and contributes to the broader goal of regional peace and stability.

China and other regional countries have maintained their joint efforts to resolve their maritime disputes through dialogue and negotiation. The Philippines should heed their experience, stop trying to drive a wedge between China and other countries, and join the regional endeavors to responsibly handle the disputes in the South China Sea.

The relationship between China and the Philippines should be characterized by mutual respect, cooperation and a joint commitment to peaceful coexistence. This is not merely a vision but a pragmatic pathway to a more stable and prosperous future for both nations and the broader region.

The recent maritime rescues are more than just isolated acts of goodwill. They remind us that in spite of complex geopolitical challenges stoked by external forces in the region, there exists a shared humanity. It is up to the Marcos Jr government to seize this moment and work with China and other regional countries toward a future where dialogue and collaboration prevail over discord and confrontation.