Philippine President Says Territorial Dispute With China Becoming ‘More Dire’

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. says that China is increasing its foothold in the contested South China Sea.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. speaks during a joint press statement with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the Malacanang Presidential Palace in Manila, Philippines, on Sept. 8, 2023. Earvin Perias/Pool via Reuters/File Photo

Tensions in the contested South China Sea are becoming “more dire” as Beijing expands its reclamation closer to Philippine water, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Monday.

While speaking to reporters in Honolulu on Nov. 20, Mr. Marcos said China has been increasing its presence in atolls and shoals that are closer to the Philippine coast, with the nearest atoll being about 111 kilometers away.