“The international community is watching, and it will not be silent in the face of Chinese aggression”
Another ally has stepped forward in the face of rising threats in the West Philippine Sea.
On May 14, the Philippines and Germany signed a landmark “Arrangement concerning Defense Cooperation.”
While the document itself outlines technical areas like cybersecurity, defense logistics, and peacekeeping, its broader message is unambiguous: the international community is watching, and it will not be silent in the face of Chinese aggression.
This agreement with Germany is a clear statement of solidarity between nations that believe in upholding international law, sovereignty, and promoting peace through collective strength.
It is also a strategic move by the Philippines, which is steadily diversifying its defense and diplomatic ties amid the escalating geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
Just a few days ago, yet another confrontation erupted near Sandy Cay in the West Philippine Sea.
According to reports, Chinese vessels engaged in dangerous and aggressive maneuvers, once again undermining the Philippines’ rights within its exclusive economic zone.
The incident drew strong condemnation from allies including the United States, Japan, and Australia—now joined by Germany, whose growing presence in the region reflects a broader shift in Europe’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
The Philippines-Germany defense agreement, forged days before this latest encounter, adds fresh weight to a growing network of security partnerships aimed at deterring peace threatening actions of Beijing.
It signals the Philippines has the support of responsible nations who abide by a rules-based international order.
This partnership also marks a milestone in the 70-year diplomatic relationship between Manila and Berlin.
For the first time, Germany has stepped into a more visible security role in the region: sending two navy ships to Manila after more than 20 years, participating in the Balikatan exercises as an observer, and preparing for future joint defense activities through the third Philippines-Germany Security and Defense Staff Talks.
These are strategic moves reflecting Germany’s recognition of the Philippines as a rising pillar in Indo-Pacific security.
In 2024, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius’ visit to Manila—the first ever by a German defense minister—already highlighted this shift. His meeting with Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro underscored Berlin’s commitment to real and tangible cooperation and led to the signing of the defense agreement.
Germany’s support also echoes its larger Indo-Pacific Strategy, which prioritizes maritime security, multilateralism, and upholding international norms.
As German Ambassador Andreas Pfaffernoschke noted at a recent forum organized by the Stratbase Institute, Germany stands with the Philippines in defending international law, freedom of navigation, and territorial sovereignty.
These are the foundational principles of peace and stability in a region that is increasingly being tested by power plays and gray zone tactics.
The Philippines’ decision to pursue deeper defense ties with Germany is not about antagonizing China—it’s sustaining the region’s stability and safeguarding our national interest.
It’s about ensuring that Filipinos can look forward to a future where their country is secure, sovereign, and respected.
It’s also about asserting that the West Philippine Sea is not a lawless frontier, but a region governed by international rule of law, specifically the 2016 Hague arbitral ruling, which invalidated China’s sweeping nine-dash line claim.
Once seen as distant from Europe’s strategic orbit, the Philippines is now recognized as a key player in the Indo-Pacific.
Distance in no longer a barrier in the reality of a globalized, interconnected world where maritime security, trade routes, and the rule of law matters to all economies.
Germany’s deepening presence is not just about defending Philippine waters—it’s about defending the principle that might does not make right.
Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Country Director Daniela Braun rightly pointed out that Philippine-German relations have entered a new and vital phase—one rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose.
She highlighted Germany’s enduring commitment to peace and multilateral cooperation, while recognizing the Philippines as a rising defense partner with growing strategic relevance.
The Philippines is no longer merely reacting to provocations—it is proactively shaping the strategic environment.
By expanding its circle of trusted defense partners, the country is sending a powerful signal: peace is not weakness, and diplomacy backed by unity is a formidable force.
As Stratbase Institute President Dindo Manhit succinctly put it, “The message is clear: responsible members of the international community such as the Philippines and Germany will continue to work together to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
That message must continue to resonate—not just in Berlin and Manila, but also in Beijing.
