Re-engineering Philippine US Relations in the Advent of Chinese Expansionism

Navigating the intricate web of Philippine interests amidst the volatile relationship between China and the United States presents a formidable challenge. The situation is further complicated by recurrent Chinese interference with Philippine resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre and escalating internal political rivalries fueled by the upcoming 2025 electoral campaign season.

Picture a scenario akin to playing multidimensional chess on a constantly shifting toroidal surface amidst the chaos of a free-for-all MMA fight. This analogy encapsulates the complexity and intensity of the situation.

For the Philippine Ambassador to the United States, Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez, this tumultuous reality fills his days in what would be the twilight years of most other man.

This may have given rise to the notion that he is a man in a precarious position and therefore, a potential weak link in the chain of steps the country needs should it decide to leverage its ties with the United States against China’s creeping maritime expansion.

It might have appeared this way to the Chinese during the term of former President Rodrigo R. Duterte. They may have perceived him either as a passive diplomat when it comes to leveraging America’s military power or a convenient “kill switch” that could be easily triggered in case Duterte’s erratic behavior led him to seek favor with the US.

Recent developments, however, tend to reveal Romualdez as an integral figure in the reengineering of the country’s military relations with the US to support a stronger, assertive stance with regards to the West Philippine Sea.

This makes Romualdez a high value target of China’s psychological war machinery and consequently, with the connivance of their Filipino sympathizers, China has unleashed sustained attacks on his reputation with the intent of removing him from office.

If they succeed, the repercussions would be devastating and enormously set back the country’s efforts to secure its claims on the West Philippine Sea.

His removal would strain relations between the Philippines and the US, signaling instability in the diplomatic relationship.

The US-Philippines security alliance could suffer immensely, leading to a dramatic decline in military cooperation and joint exercises, ultimately undermining regional security and stability.

It could be perceived as succumbing to Chinese pressure, tarnishing the reputation of the Philippine government and its ability to uphold sovereignty.

Despite the unrelenting attacks on his reputation, Romualdez has proven immovable as he stands firmly on the remarkable accomplishments that distinguished his career as Philippine ambassador to the US.

While operating under the guidance of President Bongbong Marcos and in alignment with the entire executive department, Ambassador Romualdez has been recognized for his pivotal role in reshaping military relations with the US in response to China’s expansionism.

Appointed in 2017, Romualdez has tirelessly navigated the intricate dynamics between maintaining sovereignty and fostering international partnerships. His diplomatic prowess has been instrumental in ushering in a new era of Philippine-U.S. relations characterized by mutual respect and strategic cooperation.

One of Romualdez’s notable achievements is the strengthening of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the Philippines and the United States. He has engaged in ongoing discussions with U.S. officials to ensure the defense commitments under the MDT are unequivocally upheld. This is particularly crucial given the escalating threat from China’s actions in the South China Sea. Romualdez’s efforts have led to high-profile visits from U.S. defense and state secretaries, solidifying the United States’ backing for Philippine sovereignty.

He has also been instrumental in expanding joint military exercises and defense equipment procurements to enhance the Philippines’ defense capabilities. Through initiatives like the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), the Philippines has gained access to cutting-edge military technology and training, essential for safeguarding its territorial waters.

Beyond military collaboration, Romualdez has championed economic partnership and development. Recognizing the pivotal role of economic stability, he has facilitated investments and trade opportunities beneficial to both nations. His initiatives have attracted U.S. companies to invest in various sectors, including technology, infrastructure, and renewable energy, making his engagements with cabinet officials pivotal in securing billions of dollars in business investments.

Balancing the delicate relationship between China and the U.S. is no small task. Ambassador Romualdez has adeptly managed these relations, ensuring that while the Philippines strengthens its defense ties with the U.S., it also maintains a pragmatic relationship with China. His diplomatic finesse reflects an understanding of the interconnected nature of global politics and the significance of a multifaceted foreign policy.

One of Romualdez’s key strategies has been to advocate for a rules-based order in the South China Sea, leveraging international legal frameworks like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). His diplomatic engagements underscore the importance of peaceful dispute resolution, upholding international law, and fostering regional stability.

As Chinese expansionism in the South China Sea unfolds, Ambassador Romualdez’s role in Philippine-U.S. relations becomes increasingly vital. His leadership exemplifies how skilled diplomacy can yield substantial benefits in terms of security, economic growth, and international standing.

The re-engineered multi-faceted relationship with the United States, under his guidance, stands as a testament to the power of strategic partnership in navigating the complexities of modern geopolitics.