Philippines Aims to Finalize South China Sea Code of Conduct During ASEAN Chairmanship

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro has expressed optimism that the Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026 will see the completion of the long-delayed Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea. This development comes amid mounting regional tensions involving China, the Philippines, and other claimant nations.

Speaking at a press briefing on November 17 during the country's ASEAN chairmanship launch, Lazaro indicated that the negotiations have progressed significantly over the past several years. She highlighted that both ASEAN and China are showing increased commitment to finalizing the agreement.

"It’s been several years of discussions, and there is now a shared understanding within ASEAN and China that a code of conduct will be concluded," Lazaro said. She further pointed out that the foreign ministers had mandated the completion of the COC within a three-year timeframe as of 2023, aiming for a resolution by July 2026.

Lazaro also mentioned that a scheduled meeting with China had been postponed, but underscored that this would be the final such delay under Malaysia’s ASEAN leadership. The foreign ministers’ retreat scheduled for January next year, which the Philippines will lead, is expected to focus heavily on finalizing the COC.

"It is our intention — and I believe it is ASEAN’s and China’s aspiration as well — to conclude and establish a legally binding Code of Conduct," the DFA chief emphasized.

However, Lazaro acknowledged the complexities involved in managing the diverse agenda of ASEAN as the chair country. "As ASEAN chair, our priority is on the bloc’s collective issues. While matters related to the conduct of external partners are important, they remain outside the immediate ASEAN agenda and can be addressed through bilateral channels," she explained.

She remains confident, though, that progress toward a finalized COC is achievable given ongoing meetings both virtual and in-person, involvement from all 11 ASEAN members, and the milestones already reached.

The South China Sea has been a flashpoint due to Beijing’s expansive territorial claims, enforced through deployments of coast guard vessels and fishing militias. These actions have been viewed by the Philippines and other claimant states as aggressive, disrupting fishing activities in their exclusive economic zones (EEZs).

Tensions have escalated not only between the claimant countries and China but also involve external powers such as the United States and its allies. Beijing accuses Washington of interfering in regional affairs, while the US and its partners argue that China's maneuvers undermine regional peace, security, and prosperity.

The Philippines’ leadership role in ASEAN provides a significant opportunity to push for diplomatic solutions aimed at stabilizing one of the world’s most strategically vital maritime regions.