The Philippines' concerns about encroachments in the West Philippine Sea are primarily national in nature, transcending the growing rivalry between China and the United States.

This clarification was made by Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo as he explained Manila's actions in the resource-rich waters against the backdrop of the two major powers' strategic competition in the region.

Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s administration, dozens of diplomatic protests were lodged against China for the illegal presence of vessels and harassment of Filipino enforcement agencies in the West Philippine Sea.

Manalo emphasized that these incidents have a "decidedly human element" to them that cannot be overlooked.

Reclamation in the area also has "long-term economic costs" for the coastal community, which is equivalent to destroying seven natural world heritage sites, according to the top diplomat, citing scientists.

Manila stated that while the maritime dispute is "not the sum total" of Manila's relations with China, it will continue to uphold its rights under international law, including the 2016 arbitral ruling.

Simultaneously, the country will engage with the US, as Marcos' independent foreign policy is based on strengthening bilateral ties with all partners.